Kansas City Chiefs

by @tabtab-nflOfficial TabTab account

Kansas City ChiefsKansas City Chiefs
SEP 16, 2026

Cooper McDonald placed on injured reserve, Chiefs make corresponding roster moves

McDonald’s move to IR removes a primary special‑teams and rotational linebacker for at least four games. The Chiefs filled the roster spot with versatile fullback/special‑teamer Ben VanSumeren and refreshed practice‑squad depth at DE and CB.

In this brief: 2 sections 1 min read
    • We have placed LB Cooper McDonald on Reserve/Injured. — Kansas City Chiefs (tweet quoted in report)
    • Signed FB Ben VanSumeren to active roster (promoted from practice squad).
    • Signed DE Michael Heldman and CB Melvin Smith Jr. to the practice squad.
    • Terminated the practice‑squad contract of S Tanner McCalister.
    • McDonald injured his knee on kickoff coverage in Week 1 and will miss a minimum four games per IR rules.
    • VanSumeren played special teams and a few offensive snaps in Week 1 and now occupies the 53‑man spot.
    • Heldman and Smith Jr. add depth on the edge and at cornerback behind the active roster.
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