Six NFL practice squads are taking shape after the 53-man cuts, with a slate of players connected to local roots landing on rosters’ perimeters. Jalyn Holmes returns to Washington’s practice squad after a Lake Taylor High/Ohio State background, Antwaun Powell-Ryland lands with Philadelphia, LaMareon James joins Cleveland, and Cole Christiansen signs with Kansas City. Rick Lovato signs with Los Angeles, and Pittsburgh brings Chuck Clark back to the active roster. These depth moves carry potential late-season impact and special-teams value for fantasy managers tracking rosters closely.

Local ties aren’t the only thread here; the Cowboys’ and Browns’ practice squads highlight how teams preserve veteran depth and development-projection in a volatile cap environment. For fantasy, the key takeaway is depth-chart instability at multiple positions, meaning sleepers on practice squads could ascend if promoted, while immediate Week 1 value remains limited for most.

Cole Christiansen, a linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs, was signed on September 1, 2022, after starting his pro career with the Los Angeles Chargers. Though he hasn't yet made a starting appearance, he has contributed to the Chiefs' special teams and won two Super Bowl championships. During his brief tenure, Christiansen has recorded three combined tackles, showcasing his ability to contribute in crucial moments. As he continues his journey with Kansas City, fans and fantasy players alike will be keeping an eye on his role within the team's defensive strategy.

The Kansas City Chiefs, despite having the best NFL record, are facing injury challenges as they prepare for their Week 16 matchup against the Houston Texans. Linebacker Leo Chenal has been added to the injury report with an illness, raising concerns about his availability for the game.

Chenal has been a significant contributor this season, with impressive performances including 13 tackles and a forced fumble in recent weeks. Head coach Andy Reid highlighted Chenal's ability to make impactful plays, especially in critical moments.

This season, several NFL players with ties to Virginia have made notable contributions to their teams. Players like Joey Blount of the Arizona Cardinals and Tremaine Edmunds of the Chicago Bears have seen varying levels of action, with some starting games and others primarily contributing on special teams.

In addition, several players are currently on injured reserve or have not yet appeared in games, such as Hendon Hooker of the Detroit Lions and Dalton Keene of the Houston Texans. Overall, the impact of these Virginia-connected players is being closely monitored as the season progresses.