Kansas City, MO – May 31, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs’ wide receiver group, anchored by Xavier Worthy, Rashee Rice, and Chris Olave, needed depth after cutting Kadarius Toney last week. With Skyy Moore and Mecole Hardman as key backups, the team sought a dynamic playmaker to boost their 2025 Super Bowl quest. They’ve welcomed back a familiar star: Cornell Powell.
The Chiefs have re-signed former wide receiver Cornell Powell, who returns to Missouri after a sensational UFL season with the DC Defenders, sources told ESPN. Powell, a 2021 fifth-round pick who played for Kansas City from 2021 to 2023, led the league with 1200 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns in 10 games in 2025, earning UFL MVP honors.
Powell’s homecoming began during the Chiefs’ first OTA session at their training complex, where he last wore a Chiefs jersey in 2022. He played in 3 games during his initial stint, recording no catches, but shared in the team’s Super Bowl LVII victory. A 2023 ankle injury slowed him, but his UFL brilliance has reignited his career.
“Arrowhead’s where I belong,” Powell said after practice. “With Worthy and Rice pushing me, I’m ready to deliver.” At 6-foot, 205 pounds, Powell’s speed and sure hands, refined at Clemson, make him a deep threat and red-zone weapon for Patrick Mahomes.
Powell’s return skills, showcased in UFL clips with 250 return yards, position him to vie for the WR4 role and kick return duties, filling Toney’s void. His versatility complements Hardman’s speed, adding flexibility to Andy Reid’s offense.
Chiefs Kingdom erupted on X, with fans buzzing: “Powell’s MVP and back? Let’s roll!” Another posted: “He’s tailor-made for Reid’s playbook—welcome home!” The signing reflects GM Brett Veach’s knack for reclaiming talent, as seen with additions like Kareem Hunt.
With roster moves ongoing, including talks around Omarr Norman-Lott and Brashard Smith’s arrival, Powell’s experience could stabilize the depth chart. As the Chiefs eye their Brazil opener against the Chargers on September 5, Powell’s return after winning UFL MVP signals a reloaded offense, hungry for Super Bowl LX.