D.J.

Humphries

Humphries’ release comes just a few weeks after the Commanders signed him to bolster an offensive line that had recently lost Laremy Tunsil. The veteran tackle apparently failed to make much of an impression in his brief stint with the Commanders, although it’s possible this is a roster management decision, and at some point he re-signs with Washington’s practice squad with a chance to be elevated in future weeks.

Humphries appeared in eight games with the Rams last year, mostly as a reserve. His last real chance to start came when the Chiefs turned to him in 2024 and he was disastrous there, though admittedly he was playing through a hamstring injury. He’s a veteran depth add here as the Commanders try to muddle through life without Laremy Tunsil.

Ferguson is inactive with the Rams getting Parkinson back from a shoulder injury. Braden Fiske is also active after being considered questionable with an oblique issue.

Humphries spent nine years with the Cardinals, who drafted him in 2015. His tenure there ended on a low note after he suffered a season-ending ACL tear. He returned to play in 2024, serving as the Chiefs’ left tackle in Weeks 14 and 18 but was ultimately sidelined by a hamstring injury. He was a liability in pass protection but earned a 66.1 PFF run-blocking grade. Hopefully, he can somewhat return to form this summer and contribute meaningfully to the Rams’ line.

Humphries reported on his social media account a few weeks ago that he had agreed to a contract with the 49ers, but that does not appear to be the case. At least for now. Humphries tore his ACL at the end of the 2023 season and was released by the Cardinals. He spent most of the 2024 season rehabbing before signing with the Chiefs. He started at left tackle in Week 14 before hurting his hamstring and missing the rest of the season. He will continue to search for another opportunity.

Humphries played in only two games for the Chiefs last year as he spent most of the season rehabbing a late 2023 torn ACL on his own. He wasn’t appreciably good in either of those games, but he was rusty and does have a history of being better than that. Entering his age-32 season for the 49ers, he’ll probably be trying to win the right tackle job opposite Trent Williams in training camp.

The Chiefs also removed LT D.J. Humphries (hamstring) from their injury report after both were listed on the report to start the week. Despite being listed on the report, Jones and Humphries were full participants in practice all week long, meaning there’s little to no concern about their health heading into Saturday’s game against the Texans.

The Chiefs were hopeful that Jones may be able to go, but the calf injury and the short layoff made it impossible for the 30-year-old to go. There’s a good chance he’ll be able to play if Week 18 against the Broncos game if that contest has any significance. The Chiefs will miss Humphries for a third straight game, but Jawaan Taylor (knee) is active for the Christmas Day contest.

Patrick Mahomes, Hollywood Brown, and Harrison Butker are all officially active. Humphries has not practiced since suffering his hamstring injury towards the end of Week 14. Conner (concussion) did not practice at all this week. All other players listed are healthy scratches.

Humphries continues to struggle with hamstring problems, and with back-to-back short-week games on tap for the two-time defending champions, resting Humphries today is probably the best course of action in hopes he is ready for Saturday against the Texans. Patrick Mahomes’ protection will remain a glaring issue vs. Myles Garrett and company.