By MATT PIKE
Chiefs star defensive tackle Chris Jones recently voiced a wish of bringing back a former teammate, and fan favorite, and now that wish has been granted.
Two weeks ago, Jones stood at the podium inside the Chiefs’ practice facility and advocated for general manager Brett Veach to bring back one of his best friends, defensive tackle Mike Pennel who was released during the preseason. Today, that wish came true as the Chiefs announced that Pennel has re-signed with Kansas City. Pennel after being released Tuesday by the Cincinnati Bengals.
Pennel’s signing was confirmed by his agent, Andy Simms, and the veteran was back on the practice field Wednesday as the Chiefs prepare for an AFC Championship Game rematch with the Buffalo Bills.
Pennel, the 34-year-old Topeka, Kansas, native played eight games with the Bengals after the Chiefs released him at the end of this preseason. Following his release, the Chiefs made a trade with the New York Jets, bringing back another recently departed ex-Chief in defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi. But following a torn ACL from rookie defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott, Kansas City needed some added depth on the defensive line. Adding Pennel aids in that endeavor.
Pennel has spent four seasons in Kansas City and has been a part of Chiefs Super Bowl wins during the 2019 and 2023 seasons. Last season, Pennel played 17 games with the Chiefs and had 3 sacks, 25 tackles and a fumble forced. This season with the Bengals, he has 15 tackles.
With his addition to the active 53-man roster, the Chiefs announced that defensive end Malik Herring was waived Wednesday.
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