The Kansas City Chiefs have announced the release of defensive lineman Isaiah Buggs, just days after he faced charges of animal cruelty. The Chiefs informed Buggs of their decision to part ways with him, as reported by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Buggs, a 27-year-old player who was drafted in the sixth round by the Steelers in 2019, had stints with the Raiders and Lions before joining the Chiefs’ practice squad towards the end of last season. He signed a reserve/futures contract with them after the season concluded. However, now that he has been released, Buggs will become a free agent, although his future in the NFL is uncertain due to the possibility of a suspension or placement on the commissioner’s exempt list.
The Chiefs are taking a firmer stance on off-field conduct by cutting ties with Buggs, despite his legal issues being less severe compared to wide receiver Rashee Rice’s own off-field issues this offseason. Rice remains on the team despite facing domestic violence charges.
Buggs was arrested for second-degree domestic violence and second-degree burglary for allegedly breaking into the apartment of his child’s mother and dragging her down the stairs earlier this year. This incident highlights how difficult it can be for teams to balance their desire to win football games with their responsibility to uphold certain standards of behavior both on and off the field.
