The Kansas City Chiefs signed cornerback Tanner McCalister to a futures contract on Wednesday, continuing their investment in developing defensive talent. McCalister, 26, has been navigating multiple practice squads since entering the NFL after the 2023 draft, and this contract reflects the Chiefs’ interest in his potential contributions.
McCalister’s Journey Through NFL Teams and Practice Squads
After going undrafted out of Ohio State, McCalister initially joined the Cleveland Browns as a free agent following the 2023 NFL Draft. He was released after the preseason but remained with the team on the practice squad. The Denver Broncos then signed him to a futures contract for 2024 and included him on their practice squad, where he shifted between active roster and practice squad roles before re-signing to a futures deal for 2025.
However, Denver waived him in June 2025, after which McCalister signed with the New York Jets last offseason but was released prior to the regular season. Toward the end of last year, he had short stints on the practice squads of both the Chiefs and Broncos.
Performance Highlights and Next Steps in 2024 Season
McCalister appeared in three games during the 2024 season with the Broncos and recorded one tackle, demonstrating limited but tangible on-field impact. The Chiefs’ decision to secure him with a futures contract indicates their intent to further evaluate and possibly integrate him into their defensive lineup in the coming season. His experience across several NFL teams and practice squads provides a foundation for further growth as he aims to solidify his professional career.
