The Kansas City Chiefs have waived safety Tyree Gillespie off injured reserve following an injury settlement, according to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston. Gillespie was initially placed on injured reserve after being waived by the team on August 28. The injury settlement now allows him to explore opportunities with other teams once he fully recovers from his unspecified injury.
Gillespie, a product of the University of Missouri, last played in the NFL during the 2022 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars. During that season, he appeared in three games, mainly contributing on special teams, but did not record any stats over his 28 snaps. Now, with his injury settlement finalized, Gillespie is free to seek another chance in the league, provided he demonstrates his fitness to potential new teams.
Tyree Gillespie’s next team options depend on several factors, including his health, team needs, and interest from NFL teams looking to bolster their depth, particularly on special teams or at safety. Here are some potential teams that might consider signing Gillespie:
1. **Las Vegas Raiders**: Gillespie was initially drafted by the Raiders in 2021, and they might be interested in bringing him back as depth, especially if they face injuries in the safety position or need special teams help.
2. **Jacksonville Jaguars**: Given his recent stint with the Jaguars, they might consider re-signing him if they have injuries or need additional depth in their secondary.
3. **Houston Texans**: The Texans are in a rebuilding phase and have been known to take chances on younger players with upside. They could be a good fit for Gillespie if he proves his fitness.
4. **Indianapolis Colts**: The Colts have had some instability in their secondary and could benefit from adding depth. They also value special teams players, which could work in Gillespie’s favor.
5. **Arizona Cardinals**: With the Cardinals dealing with defensive injuries and overall depth concerns, especially in the secondary, they could be a landing spot for Gillespie.
6. **Atlanta Falcons**: The Falcons have had ongoing issues with their secondary and special teams, making Gillespie a potential depth piece if they look to reinforce these areas.
7. **Detroit Lions**: The Lions are an emerging team looking to build a strong roster, and they have shown interest in adding versatile players, particularly those who can contribute on special teams.
8. **Cleveland Browns**: The Browns have had issues with secondary depth, and Gillespie could fit as a special teams contributor and backup safety.
9. **New York Giants**: The Giants are dealing with depth issues in the secondary and are always on the lookout for players who can contribute on special teams, making them a potential fit.
10. **Tennessee Titans**: With a defense that emphasizes toughness and versatility, Gillespie’s skill set could appeal to the Titans, especially if they have any injuries in the secondary.
Gillespie’s next step will depend on his recovery and ability to showcase his skills to potential suitors. His special teams experience and ability to provide depth at safety could make him a valuable asset for teams looking to strengthen their defensive rotations and special teams units.