One of the most surprising risers is Cooper McDonald, a linebacker out of TCU who wasn’t drafted but got his shot through a rookie minicamp tryout. Since then, he’s turned heads with his quickness and tenacity in drills. Spagnuolo praised his one-on-one performances against running backs, calling him “a really good find.” That’s high praise coming from a coach who’s built elite units in multiple cities.
Meanwhile, Kevin Knowles, an undrafted cornerback from Florida State, is turning into a serious contender for the nickel corner role. Though Spagnuolo admitted he didn’t know much about Knowles before camp, he’s been impressed by his speed, awareness, and ability to adjust to the NFL tempo. “He’s found a little home at that nickel spot,” Spags said—a subtle hint that the young DB may be earning more than just second-team reps soon.
What makes these stories more compelling is the Chiefs’ defensive system. Spagnuolo runs a complex scheme that demands high football IQ and quick adaptation. For undrafted players to thrive in that environment, they need more than just raw talent—they need discipline, situational intelligence, and resilience.
On a day when practice slowed down with a 10‑10‑10 schedule—a lighter, more strategic format—Spagnuolo still took time to highlight these players. It wasn’t just about giving praise; it was a signal that the Chiefs’ coaching staff values development, no matter where a player came from.
These early breakthroughs may not guarantee a 53-man roster spot yet, but they do lay the foundation for something bigger. In Kansas City, where depth wins games and late-season injuries are inevitable, these undrafted names might be making their cases at just the right time.
