Kansas City Chiefs release former first-round cornerback Kaiir Elam

The Kansas City Chiefs released cornerback Kaiir Elam after the defensive back failed to secure a spot on the team's initial 53-man roster. Elam signed a one-year, $1.81 million contract with the club in April but appeared in only two preseason games. Originally selected by the Buffalo Bills with the 23rd overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Elam has struggled to maintain a consistent role throughout his professional career. He previously spent time with the Dallas Cowboys and the Tennessee Titans after being traded by Buffalo in 2025. Over three seasons with the Bills, he recorded 81 tackles and two interceptions across 29 games. The move leaves Elam as a free agent looking for his fourth team in four seasons.

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