Chiefs Reunite With Veteran Lineman Mike Pennel To Bolster Defensive Front

The Kansas City Chiefs are bringing back a familiar face to reinforce their defensive front. Veteran defensive tackle Mike Pennel is set to rejoin the team after being released by the Cincinnati Bengals earlier this week.

The move comes as the Chiefs attempt to capitalize on the momentum from a 28-7 victory over the Washington Commanders. This improved their record to 5-3 for the season. Kansas City’s defense, led by Chris Jones, held Washington to just 260 total yards and forced two turnovers. With rookie Omarr-Norman-Lott ruled out for the year, depth along the defensive line has become a growing concern.

However, the next week, they suffered a painful loss to the Bills.

Pennel, 33 years old, is no stranger to Kansas City. He played two seasons with the Chiefs from 2019 to 2020, and helped the franchise win its first Super Bowl title in 50 years. He later returned in 2023 and earned another championship ring. Besides potentially being the Chiefs’ good luck charm, he is also known for his strength against the run and locker-room presence. Pennel quickly became a favorite among teammates and coaches.

After a brief period with the Bengals this season, Pennel struggled to make an impact, recording just 15 tackles through seven games. Cincinnati’s defense ranks near the bottom of the league in rushing yards allowed and failed to register a sack in its 39-38 loss to the New York Jets on Sunday. The Bengals released Pennel on Tuesday as part of a midseason roster shakeup.

Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones expressed excitement about Pennel’s potential return. He said, “He’s a heck of a locker-room guy. We’ve got to get my brother back.”

If finalized, Pennel’s signing would reunite him with a defense currently ranked among the NFL’s top five.