Jack Cochrane
A prime example of how an undrafted free agent can carve out a role despite humble beginnings, Cochrane – a rookie free agent signee in 2022 – has appeared in 64 games for the Chiefs over the past four seasons. His 975 special teams’ snaps over the last three years lead Kansas City, and when called upon, Cochrane has logged defensive snaps in 17 career games.
With Leo Chenal no longer on the roster, Cochrane will have additional opportunities to make an impact defensively in 2026.
Cole Christiansen
Christiansen, who originally signed with the Chiefs’ practice squad in early September of the 2022 season, has appeared in 15 games for Kansas City over the past four years. He tallied three appearances last season, playing exclusively on special teams.
The 28-year-old linebacker appeared in seven games for the Los Angeles Chargers between the 2020-21 seasons before signing with Kansas City.
Cooper McDonald
One of the best stories from last summer, McDonald – a tryout player at Rookie Minicamp – made the Chiefs’ initial 53-man roster and went on to appear in all 17 games in 2025. Notably, McDonald’s 289 special teams’ snaps ranked third on the team.
Additionally, McDonald logged at least 20 defensive snaps in each of the Chiefs’ final two games last year, which included a start in Week 18.
Before heading to Kansas City, the 6-foot-2, 235-pound McDonald tallied 25 tackles, four tackles-for-loss, three sacks, a forced fumble and a pass defensed in nine games for TCU in 2024. Prior to his time with the Horned Frogs, McDonald spent two seasons each at Washington (2020-21) and San Diego State (2022-23).