The Kansas City Chiefs made two key roster adjustments on May 15 as injuries continue to shape their offseason strategy. According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 in Houston, the team waived running back Keaontay Ingram with an injury designation and released wide receiver Justin Lockhart through an injury settlement.
“Chiefs waived-injured Keaontay Ingram and removed Justin Lockhart from injured reserve with an injury settlement,” said Wilson in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Despite reaching the Super Bowl for the third straight year, the Kansas City Chiefs lacked consistent big-play production from their offensive skill players last season. That shortcoming has driven their offseason efforts to surround star quarterback Patrick Mahomes with more dynamic playmakers.
Keaontay Ingram with the Chiefs
Ingram, 25, completed his third NFL season with the Chiefs after spending his first two years with the Arizona Cardinals, who selected him in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft at No. 201 overall. A former Texas and USC running back, Ingram appeared in 20 games for Arizona before joining Kansas City’s practice squad in late 2023 and later signing a reserve/future deal in February.
Though he showed flashes during the 2024 preseason with 42 rushing yards on nine carries, he didn’t play an offensive snap during the regular season and contributed mostly on special teams. With only one appearance for the Chiefs in 2024 and an injury designation upon release, Ingram is likely headed to injured reserve unless he reaches a settlement like Lockhart did.
Justin Lockhart with the Chiefs
Lockhart, an undrafted rookie wide receiver, had a brief stint with the Chiefs after signing earlier this month. He spent five collegiate seasons from 2019 to 2024, starting at Nevada before transferring to San Jose State, though he missed all of 2023 due to injury.
After being waived, the Chiefs aimed to move him to injured reserve, but Lockhart chose an injury settlement, likely in pursuit of a new opportunity. His departure reflects Kansas City’s efforts to streamline the roster with training camp approaching.
Lockhart hauled in 53 passes for 983 yards and five touchdowns in his final college season, flashing big-play potential with an average of 18.5 yards per catch. Kansas City was drawn to his ability to stretch the field, but injuries ultimately limited his opportunity to make an impact.
With summer approaching, Kansas City continues to fine-tune its roster. These latest transactions reflect the Chiefs’ clear intent to chase a third Lombardi Trophy in four years.
