Xavier Nwankpa aims to secure a role on Chiefs' special teams
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 27, 2026, 6:30 PM
Last updated Jul 27, 2026
Kansas City Chiefs rookie safety Xavier Nwankpa, an undrafted free agent from Iowa, is focusing on making an impact on special teams. With 466 special teams snaps over his college career, Nwankpa emphasizes his versatility and experience in this phase of the game. He participated in the Chiefs' mandatory minicamp on June 10 and is eager to contribute while developing his role in the defensive lineup. Amid limited veteran presence at safety, Nwankpa expressed his commitment to capitalize on available opportunities to help improve the team's special teams unit, which struggled last season.
- •Xavier Nwankpa played four seasons at Iowa, specializing in special teams.
- •He accumulated at least 75 special teams snaps each year in college.
- •Nwankpa aims to secure a roster spot with effective special teams play.
- •Chiefs safeties coach Andre Curtis pursued Nwankpa after the draft.
- •Veteran Alohi Gilman leads a safety group with fewer established players.
- 6:30 PMYahoo Sports — Chiefs rookie safety Xavier Nwankpa is ready to impact special teams
"An undrafted defensive back knows the third phase of the game will be key to making Kansas City’s roster.
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