Kansas City Chiefs Make Surprise Cut on Offense

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Kansas City Chiefs Make Surprise Cut on Offense

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan Dodson | Last updated Aug 31, 2026 5:12 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs waived veteran running back Emari Demercado Sunday. The Chiefs also waived running backs Jaydn Ott and EJ Smith, opting to open the season with three running backs. Demercado was a bit of a surprise as he was battling with Brashard Smith and rookie Emmett Johnson for third-down duties behind starter Kenneth Walker III.

Demercado rushed nine times for 37 yards and hauled in a 15-yard reception in the preseason finale Friday against the Seattle Seahawks. Smith operated as the lead back, rushing 16 times for 72 yards. Johnson rushed seven times for 39 yards and caught two balls for 15 yards.

Demercado has the most experience behind Walker as he rushed 44 times for 312 yards (7.1 yards per carry) and caught 13 passes for 101 yards and a touchdown in 13 games with the Arizona Cardinals last season. Smith’s production on special teams was likely a factor. He returned a kickoff 57 yards Friday and figures to be a key component there during the season.

Smith will likely serve as Walker’s backup with Johnson filling in on third downs as well. Johnson was an accomplished receiver out of the backfield at Nebraska. He caught 46 passes for 370 yards and three touchdowns as a junior last season. The Chiefs took him in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Demercado was quickly plucked off waivers by the Dallas Cowboys. He is reunited with offensive coordinator Klayton Adams, whom he played for in Arizona.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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