Chris Oladokun Added to Practice Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs

In the NFL, quarterback depth is a cornerstone of roster stability—even for teams with elite starters like the Kansas City Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes. This week, the Chiefs reinforced that depth with a strategic move: Chris Oladokun Added to Practice Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs. The signing, while under the radar compared to active roster additions, reflects the Chiefs’ commitment to preparing for every scenario—from practice reps to potential injury replacements. For Oladokun, a journeyman quarterback with a knack for adapting to new systems, the practice squad spot is more than just a contract; it’s a chance to learn from one of the league’s top offenses and prove he can contribute at the sport’s highest level.

Chris Oladokun Added to Practice Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs comes after a winding path through football for the 26-year-old signal-caller. Oladokun’s college career was defined by resilience: he started at South Florida, transferred to Sam Houston State, and finally found his stride at South Dakota State, where he led the Jackrabbits to the 2021 FCS National Championship. As a senior, he threw for 3,164 yards and 25 touchdowns, earning All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honors and catching the eye of NFL scouts. Despite his success, Oladokun went undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft, signing a rookie free-agent deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent training camp with the Steelers before being waived, then had short stints on the practice squads of the Denver Broncos, New York Giants, and Carolina Panthers. Most recently, he played for the USFL’s New Jersey Generals in 2023, throwing for 1,750 yards and 12 touchdowns to showcase his arm strength and decision-making. “I’ve never let setbacks define me,” Oladokun said in a recent interview. “Every stop has taught me something new, and I’m ready to bring that experience to the Chiefs.”

Chris Oladokun Added to Practice Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs addresses a specific need for the Chiefs: quality practice reps for their defense and scout team preparation. In the NFL, practice squad quarterbacks play a critical role—they simulate opposing teams’ QBs during weekly drills, helping the defense prepare for upcoming opponents’ schemes. For the Chiefs, who face dynamic passers like Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens) and Russell Wilson (Denver Broncos) in the AFC, having a versatile QB like Oladokun is invaluable. Oladokun’s ability to mimic different playing styles—from mobile QBs to pocket passers—makes him a asset in practice. “Chris has the arm talent and football IQ to replicate any quarterback we’re facing,” said Chiefs quarterbacks coach Matt Nagy. “Our defense needs to practice against realistic looks, and Chris delivers that. He’s quick to pick up new plays and adjust his approach, which is exactly what we need from a practice squad QB.” Oladokun’s skill set also aligns with the Chiefs’ offensive philosophy: he’s comfortable throwing deep, can extend plays with his legs, and excels at reading zone defenses—traits that mirror elements of Mahomes’ game.

Chris Oladokun Added to Practice Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs also provides the team with a safety net at the quarterback position. While Mahomes has been remarkably durable (missing just two games in his career), the Chiefs’ active roster backup is Blaine Gabbert, a 12-year veteran. Adding Oladokun to the practice squad means the Chiefs have a third QB ready to be activated if Gabbert were to get injured or unavailable. NFL rules allow teams to elevate up to two practice squad players per game, so Oladokun could step into a game-day role quickly if needed. “You can never have too much quarterback depth,” said Chiefs head coach Andy Reid. “Patrick is our guy, but Blaine and Chris give us security. If something happens, we know we have players who can step in and run our offense—even if it’s just in practice or a backup role.” The Kansas City Chiefs’ focus on quarterback depth isn’t new; they’ve historically kept practice squad QBs who can contribute to game prep, and Oladokun fits that mold perfectly. His familiarity with multiple NFL systems—from the Steelers’ run-heavy attack to the Giants’ West Coast offense—means he can adapt to the Chiefs’ complex scheme quickly.

Chris Oladokun Added to Practice Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs is a testament to the team’s scouting department, which has a track record of finding underrated talent. The Chiefs’ scouts first noticed Oladokun during his time at South Dakota State, impressed by his leadership and ability to win big games. They kept tabs on him through his NFL and USFL stops, noting his consistency and willingness to learn. When the Chiefs had an opening on their practice squad after releasing a wide receiver last week, Oladokun was a top target. “Our scouting team does a great job of tracking players who might be flying under the radar,” said Chiefs general manager Brett Veach. “Chris has the tools to help our team—both in practice and potentially down the line. He’s a hard worker, and he’s shown he can adapt to any system. That’s the kind of player we want in our organization.” The Kansas City Chiefs’ investment in scouting practice squad players has paid off in the past; former practice squad QB Chad Henne became a reliable backup for Mahomes, even leading a game-winning drive in the 2021 playoffs. Oladokun now has the chance to follow that path.

Chris Oladokun Added to Practice Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs is ultimately a win-win for both the player and the team. For Oladokun, it’s an opportunity to learn from Mahomes, Reid, and Nagy—some of the best minds in football. He’ll attend all team meetings, study film with Mahomes, and get reps with the Chiefs’ offensive playmakers, honing his skills in a high-pressure, winning environment. “Being around Patrick and Coach Reid is a dream come true,” Oladokun said after signing. “I’m going to soak up every bit of knowledge I can, work my hardest in practice, and be ready whenever the team needs me.” For the Chiefs, Oladokun’s addition strengthens their practice squad, improves their defense’s preparation, and provides a safety net at quarterback. As the Chiefs push for another AFC West title and a Super Bowl run, every member of the roster—including practice squad players—plays a role in their success. In the end, Chris Oladokun Added to Practice Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs is more than just a roster move; it’s a reminder of the NFL’s hidden talent pipeline and the importance of investing in players who have the drive to grow. For Oladokun, this could be the break he needs to establish himself in the NFL. For the Chiefs, it’s another step toward building a roster that can compete for championships year after year.