Kansas City courts Steven Nelson for playoff run

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that former Chiefs cornerback Steven Nelson, who announced his retirement earlier this year, is set to visit Kansas City on Monday for a potential return to the team.

Nelson, 31, spent the first four years of his NFL career with the Chiefs after being drafted in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft.

Over 52 games in Kansas City, he logged 182 tackles, four interceptions, and 35 passes defended, cementing his role as a reliable member of the secondary.

After stints with the Steelers, Eagles, and Texans, Nelson retired in June to focus on family and business ventures, including welcoming a new child.

Chiefs need defensive reinforcements

The Chiefs’ interest in Nelson is largely fueled by injuries within their cornerback group.

Jaylen Watson’s fractured ankle in Week 7 and Nazeeh Johnson’s struggles following an ACL injury have left the team thin in key defensive positions.

While standout players like Trent McDuffie and Joshua Williams remain, Kansas City’s depth is being tested at a critical point in the season.

Nelson’s career totals – 456 tackles, 13 interceptions, and 35 passes defensed – underscore his veteran presence, but his last appearance in the NFL came in 2023, when he posted career-best numbers with the Texans.

If signed, Nelson would bring postseason experience, having played in eight playoff games across four teams, including the Chiefs’ memorable 2018 AFC Championship clash against the Patriots.

While Nelson has no prior experience under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and would need to quickly adapt to the Chiefs’ scheme, the timing of this move suggests the team is focused on preparing for the playoffs.

With Super Bowl aspirations and a pressing need for depth in their secondary, the Chiefs may see Nelson as the piece that helps them maintain their championship momentum.