Home / Sports / Chiefs Linebacker Out 4 Games, Team Holds Tryouts
Chiefs Linebacker Out 4 Games, Team Holds Tryouts
18 Sep
Summary
- Linebacker McDonald placed on injured reserve, out at least four games.
- Chiefs hosted four free agent linebackers for tryouts Thursday.
- Marte Mapu, a former Patriots third-round pick, has NFL experience.
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Cooper McDonald will miss at least four games after being placed on injured reserve on Wednesday. The team is actively exploring options to bolster their linebacker corps.
On Thursday, the Chiefs conducted tryouts for four free agent linebackers: Marte Mapu, Dominic DeLuca, Langston Patterson, and TJ Quinn. DeLuca, Patterson, and Quinn are undrafted players from the 2026 class. Mapu, a 26-year-old former Sacramento State standout, was a third-round pick by the New England Patriots in 2023. He recorded 25 tackles and one forced fumble in 2025 for the Houston Texans after being traded from New England.
Mapu possesses notable NFL experience, including his first career interception against Patrick Mahomes during his rookie season. His availability represents a significant potential addition for the Chiefs as they navigate McDonald's absence.
