Nathan Carter joins Chiefs practice squad after Falcons release
The second-year running back moves to Kansas City following a preseason marked by errors, as Atlanta retains only two backs on its active roster.
Former Atlanta Falcons running back Nathan Carter has signed with the Kansas City Chiefs' practice squad, marking a significant shift in his early NFL career. Carter, an undrafted free agent from Michigan State, joined the Chiefs on Tuesday after being released by the Falcons. The move places him under the guidance of head coach Andy Reid, who is expected to evaluate the player's potential during the upcoming season.
Carter spent the 2025 season with Atlanta, appearing in seven games primarily on special teams. His rushing production was limited, with nine attempts for 60 yards. Despite his modest offensive contributions, the second-year back possesses kick-return ability that could be a factor in his eventual inclusion on the Chiefs' 53-man roster.
The departure from Atlanta followed a 2026 preseason in which Carter committed several errors. These blunders likely diminished his chances of returning to the Falcons' active roster. The team has since filled the majority of its practice squad with players from its 90-man training camp roster, but Carter was among those who did not remain.
The Falcons' roster decisions have drawn scrutiny, particularly regarding their running back group. Atlanta retained only Bijan Robinson and Brian Robinson Jr. on its 53-man roster. The release of veteran Tyler Goodson at the cut deadline generated confusion among observers, given that the former Colt outperformed Brian Robinson Jr. during the preseason.
Goodson's departure raises questions about the depth of the Falcons' backfield, as he had arguably earned a spot as the team's third running back. Meanwhile, Atlanta kept four quarterbacks on its initial 53-man roster, a decision that has been described as more puzzling than the running back moves.
With nearly two weeks remaining until the Falcons' season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the implications of these roster choices remain to be seen. Carter's move to Kansas City offers a fresh start, while Atlanta's front office faces the task of managing its squad ahead of the regular season.
