Chiefs re-sign defensive tackle Matt Dickerson just days after releasing him

The Kansas City Chiefs have brought back DT Matt Dickerson just days after they released him from the 90-man offseason roster. The move to sign Dickerson is listed on the team's transaction page for Monday, May 20. 

Dickerson was released on May 13 to make room for LB Cole Christiansen. As a vested veteran, he wasn't subject to waivers and free sign with any team. He ultimately didn't have to wait long for his next opportunity, which just so happened to be with the same team. 

2024 marks Dickerson's second season and third offseason in Kansas City. He originally joined in August of 2022 ahead of the club's training camp. He was waived during 53-man roster cuts and claimed by the Atlanta Falcons. Dickerson rejoined the Chiefs in May of 2023.

Dickerson appeared in 12 games for the Chiefs last season, recording 15 total tackles and one tackle for loss in 190 defensive snaps for the team. He was waived late in the season and added to the practice squad once veteran DT Mike Pennel got up to speed. Dickerson signed a reserve/future contract with the Chiefs back in February. 

What does this move mean for Kansas City? 

The Chiefs had a free roster space available on the 90-man roster after RB La'Mical Perine was released on Friday. That means they won't need a corresponding roster move to re-sign Dickerson. 

Why exactly would they release a player like Dickerson only to bring him back in short order? Well, as mentioned earlier, his status as a vested veteran means that he carries no risk of being claimed on waivers by an opposing team. He's a player that the team can release and bring back multiple times throughout the offseason as they continue to tinker with the 90-man offseason roster. 

Dickerson's return isn't a big surprise and it isn't some grand news that will make the team any better or worse. It's not great news for players vying for roster spots along the interior defensive line, such as Isaiah Buggs, Neil Farrell Jr., and Fabien Lovett. He'll add another body to the mix and a veteran one who has already played snaps for Joe Cullen and Steve Spagnuolo. It just makes things that much more difficult for those trying to earn a shot.