Chiefs Release Tight Ends Anthony Firkser and Baylor Cupp as Kelce Returns The Kansas City Chiefs have parted ways with tight ends Anthony Firkser and Baylor Cupp, streamlining their roster ahead of the 2025 NFL season. This move follows Travis Kelce’s decision to…. See more details

Chiefs Release Tight Ends Anthony Firkser and Baylor Cupp as Kelce Returns

Kansas City, MO  The Kansas City Chiefs have officially released tight ends Anthony Firkser and Baylor Cupp, a move that comes just days after star tight end Travis Kelce confirmed he would return for the 2025 NFL season. The decision reflects the team’s effort to streamline its roster and reinforce Kelce’s continued dominance as the centerpiece of their tight end corps.

Kelce, a future Hall of Famer and one of the most productive tight ends in NFL history, had sparked retirement rumors following the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LVIII victory. However, his announcement to return for at least one more season gives Kansas City a clear veteran leader at the position, making it more difficult for depth players like Firkser and Cupp to carve out meaningful roles.

Anthony Firkser, 29, joined the Chiefs in 2023 after previous stints with the Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons. Known for his pass-catching ability and reliable hands, Firkser saw limited action in Kansas City’s crowded offensive system. Baylor Cupp, a young prospect with upside, was brought in to compete for a backup role but never made a regular-season appearance.

The move signals head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach’s confidence in both Kelce’s ability to remain productive and the potential of younger talent in development, such as Noah Gray and Jody Fortson. Gray, in particular, has emerged as a solid secondary option in two-tight end sets, while Fortson offers athleticism and size in red-zone packages.

As offseason workouts begin and roster spots tighten, the Chiefs’ decision to part ways with Firkser and Cupp underscores their continued pursuit of efficiency and excellence—hallmarks of a team looking to make a fourth Super Bowl appearance in six seasons.

What’s Next for Kansas City?

With Kelce leading the way, the Chiefs will likely focus on refining their offensive schemes while evaluating young tight ends and undrafted free agents during training camp. Meanwhile, Firkser and Cupp will hope to land new opportunities elsewhere as teams around the league begin shaping their own 90-man rosters.