The Kansas City Chiefs have finalized their initial 53-man roster for the upcoming 2024 NFL season. With the roster set, the Chiefs' focus now shifts towards building a strong practice squad. As the reigning back-to-back champions, Kansas City looks to retain promising training camp favorites while also exploring the potential of adding players released by other teams.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Chiefs officially announced the signing of 16 players to their practice squad. These signings consist entirely of players who were cut from the team on Tuesday. Among the signed players are running back Emani Bailey, linebacker Swayze Bozeman, and wide receiver Nikko Remigio.

It is important to note that Chukwuebuka Godrick, an offensive tackle from the league's International Pathway Program, occupies one of the 17 practice squad spots. This leaves the Chiefs with one remaining spot to fill. The team also waived cornerback Nic Jones, who could potentially return to the practice squad if he goes unclaimed.

However, there are a few notable absences from the practice squad. Sixth-round pick cornerback Kamal Hadden, former rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit, second-year running back Deneric Prince, and 2021 fifth-round pick Cornell Powell are not included in the initial practice squad signings.

In terms of the quarterback position, the Chiefs are reportedly signing former New England Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe to their practice squad. This move comes after an underwhelming preseason performance from third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun and fourth-stringer Ian Book.

Wide receiver Justyn Ross, who was waived following the acquisition of veteran receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, will return to the Chiefs' practice squad. Another exciting signing is wide receiver Nikko Remigio, who impressed during the preseason with his skills and potential as a special teams asset.

Veteran safety Deon Bush, who played in 16 games for the Chiefs in 2022 and six in 2023, will also be joining the practice squad. Linebacker Cole Christiansen, rookie undrafted free agent linebacker Swayze Bozeman, and tight end Baylor Cupp are among the other players who have been retained.

The Chiefs' practice squad can include up to 17 players, with certain limitations. One spot is designated for an International Pathway Program player, which is currently filled by Chukwuebuka Godrick. The remaining spots are limited to veterans, players with limited experience, rookies, or players with less than nine games of regular-season experience.

As Kansas City continues to fine-tune their roster ahead of the 2024 season, the composition of the practice squad will play a crucial role in providing depth and development opportunities for the team's aspiring players.