Kansas City Chiefs Part Ways with Veteran Pass Rusher Mike Danna
The Kansas City Chiefs have made a significant roster move by releasing veteran pass rusher and two-time Super Bowl champion Mike Danna ahead of the 2026 NFL season. This decision comes as the team shifts into cost-cutting mode following a disappointing playoff miss, with head coach Andy Reid initiating a rebuild that involves shedding older players to create financial flexibility.
Financial Implications and Contract Details
Danna, aged 28, had one year remaining on his contract, but none of his scheduled base salary was guaranteed for the 2026 season. By releasing him, the Chiefs free up approximately $8.94 million in cap space, while incurring a dead money charge of just $2.17 million. This move is part of a broader strategy to reallocate resources as the team looks to retool its roster for future competitiveness.
Danna's Career with the Chiefs
Mike Danna has spent his entire NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs since being drafted in 2020 out of Michigan with the 177th overall pick. He played a key role in the team's back-to-back Super Bowl victories in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, contributing alongside stars like Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes. His breakout year in 2023 saw him record 6.5 sacks and 47 quarterback pressures over 16 starts, earning him a lucrative three-year extension worth $24 million.
Decline in Performance and Release Announcement
However, Danna's performance declined in the 2025 season as the Chiefs struggled to maintain their previous success. In 15 games, with 14 starts, he managed only eight solo tackles, a sharp drop from 20 in 2024 and 32 in 2023. The team announced his release on social media, accompanied by a simple message: 'Thank you.' While veterans like Kelce may retain roster spots if they choose to continue playing, Danna was not afforded the same opportunity.
Future Prospects for Danna
Despite being cut, Mike Danna is expected to attract interest from other NFL teams. At 28 years old, he still has productive years ahead and is viewed as an affordable option for teams seeking pass rush help. Reports from Fox Sports suggest potential landing spots include the San Francisco 49ers, Green Bay Packers, and Detroit Lions, all of whom have significant needs at the edge position and could benefit from his experience and championship pedigree.
This release marks a pivotal moment in the Chiefs' offseason strategy, as they balance honoring past contributions with building for the future in a competitive league landscape.
