In an offseason marked by significant changes for the Kansas City Chiefs, one notable player is heading to a divisional rival. Former Chiefs linebacker Swayze Bozeman, a Super Bowl champion with Kansas City, has been claimed off waivers by the Cincinnati Bengals, adding a new chapter to his career as he seeks to make an impact with his new team.
Bozeman’s Journey to the NFL
Bozeman entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024, and after going unselected in the draft, he landed with the Chiefs. Though he spent most of his rookie season on the practice squad, Bozeman did manage to make appearances in three games, contributing three tackles. He ended his first season in the league on a high note, earning a Super Bowl ring with the Chiefs following their victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Despite his championship success, Bozeman’s time with Kansas City was brief. He signed with the Chicago Bears the following offseason but was released late in the preseason. He then found a new opportunity with the New York Giants, initially joining their practice squad before getting some playing time. However, his season with the Giants was similarly limited, as he appeared in six games and recorded just six tackles.
Claimed by the Bengals
Bozeman’s journey continued when he was released by the Giants and subsequently claimed on waivers by the Cincinnati Bengals, a move that puts him in direct competition with other linebackers vying for a spot on the team’s roster. The Bengals, coming off a strong season, have made significant changes to their linebacker room, leaving opportunities for players like Bozeman to earn playing time, potentially even as a special teams contributor or defensive backup.
The Bengals’ official website announced the acquisition of Bozeman, signaling their interest in adding depth and competition to their linebacker corps. Cincinnati’s defense underwent a makeover this offseason, and Bozeman will be hoping to earn a meaningful role during training camp.
A New Opportunity in Cincinnati
While Bozeman’s NFL career has been defined more by his role on special teams than as a full-time starter, his time with the Bengals may offer him a fresh chance to prove himself. Given that Cincinnati revamped its linebacker unit, there could be a window of opportunity for Bozeman to carve out a spot on the defensive side of the ball. However, with a highly competitive linebacker group already in place, Bozeman’s initial role is likely to be on special teams, where he can make an impact in a backup capacity.
Cincinnati’s decision to claim Bozeman is a risk-free move, offering the team a low-cost addition with potential upside if he can adjust to their defensive scheme. Bozeman’s versatility and previous experience could make him an appealing option for the Bengals, but the pressure is on him to prove he belongs in a crowded linebacker room.
Chiefs’ Lack of Need for Bozeman
For the Chiefs, Bozeman’s departure was not a surprise. Kansas City’s roster has undergone several changes during the offseason, but the team has shifted its focus to other areas in need of improvement. The Chiefs have made moves to address various positions, and while bringing Bozeman back would have been a sentimental story, the team does not have a significant need for him in their current linebacker rotation.
As training camp approaches, the Chiefs will be focused on a number of key position battles, particularly in areas where they made offseason upgrades. However, Kansas City’s front office will likely be watching Bozeman’s development with the Bengals, curious to see if he can make a lasting impact on his new team.
Looking Ahead
While Bozeman’s journey has been marked by ups and downs, his move to the Bengals represents a fresh start with a team looking to continue its strong defensive play. If he can contribute in a meaningful way, Bozeman will have the chance to revitalize his career in Cincinnati, where competition for a roster spot will be fierce but potentially rewarding.
For Chiefs fans, the news of Bozeman’s departure to a divisional rival may sting a little, but it also serves as a reminder of how quickly the NFL landscape can change. As Bozeman takes on a new challenge with the Bengals, his former team will look to build on their Super Bowl aspirations in 2026, while the linebacker fights for a place on the Bengals’ roster.
Bozeman’s story is one of perseverance, and while it has been full of setbacks, he continues to find opportunities to prove himself at the next level. With a new team and a new chapter in his career, the future is uncertain, but Bozeman’s determination will be a key factor in whether he can overcome the odds and establish himself in Cincinnati.
