Just when it looked like opportunities might be running out for one former Washington Commanders training camp star, another door opened. And this represents a dream shot to potentially stake a claim on a perennial Super Bowl contender.
Things looked immensely promising for Michael Wiley once upon a time in Washington. The rookie signed as an undrafted free agent last spring and immediately made his presence felt. His urgent rushing and dual-threat capabilities saw him attract interest from fans and coaches in equal measure. He followed this up with some eye-catching moments in the preseason, which led many to believe he'd be on the 53-man roster.
Wiley didn't quite do enough to make the team. The Commanders brought him back onto the practice squad, and he was given a reserve/futures contract by the organization this offseason. This kept his foot in the door, but it didn't last long.
Commanders cast-off Michael Wiley gets another roster shot with the Chiefs
The former Arizona standout was waived by the Commanders with an injury settlement in late July. Most thought that would be the end of Wiley's shot in the pros, but the promising player got a monumental career lifeline when all hope seemed lost.
Now, Wiley gets the chance to stake a claim with the Kansas City Chiefs after they signed him to a one-year deal. He's a long shot to make the roster, but his abilities as a pass-catcher out of the backfield intrigued head coach Andy Reid enough for a closer look.
Time is of the essence with a fortnight left until the dreaded cut-down day around the league. Wiley needs to adjust quickly and take advantage of any opportunities that come his way. If he gets some preseason involvement, the player must stand out.
Even that might not be enough. The Chiefs will likely move forward with Isiah Pacheco, Kareem Hunt, and Elijah Mitchell as their preferred trio. But if Wiley can force his way into practice squad consideration, that represents an outstanding achievement in difficult circumstances.
As for the Commanders? They look set at running back in 2025 with Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt leading the way. They might take a fourth running back through, but Deebo Samuel Sr. and Jaylin Lane are also capable of logging carries out of the backfield if the situation dictates.
They were always going to move on from Wiley at some stage. But he couldn't have picked a better spot for his last chance saloon this summer.