The Chiefs are signing RB Samaje Perine to their active roster, NFL Network reports. That adds Perine to a backfield that had sported Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Carson Steele as backups to Isiah Pacheco. Ian Rapoport reports that K.C. had talked with Denver about a potential trade for Perine before Denver released him Tuesday.
2024 Fantasy Football Impact
The Chiefs re-signed CEH early this offseason, after visiting with then-free agent J.K. Dobbins (and passing on him).
Steele emerged as a hot camp and preseason story before making the roster as an undrafted free agent.
Kansas City's immediate addition of Perine, though -- and reported strong interest ahead of the signing -- indicates that they covet his proven skill set.
The 29-year-old (come Sept. 16) has served as a third-down type for his past two teams. Perine caught 50 passes for last year's Broncos and 65 passes over his final two seasons in Cincinnati -- despite working behind a lead back in each case.
The backup situation looks unclear now in K.C., which probably means you shouldn't bother targeting any "handcuff" here. A Pacheco injury would likely give way to a replacement committee.
Other Winners & Losers
Edwards-Helaire and Steele both lose here. Adding Perine to the active roster rather than pursuing insurance for the practice squad says K.C. is addressing a perceived need.