Free-agent defensive tackle Mike Pennel will be back with the Kansas City Chiefs after signing a one-year deal with the team, per his agent.

2019 was Pennel's first season with the Chiefs and in eight games, the 6-foot-4 DT recorded 24 tackles, two tackles for a loss and one sack as a rotation piece on the defensive line.

 

Mike Pennel was signed as a free agent in late October after the team released veteran DT Terrell McClain. Prior to Kansas City, the 28-year-old spent two seasons with the New York Jets and three with the Green Bay Packers.

While he didn't start any regular-season games for the Chiefs, Pennell was an important rotation piece for the team and made two starts during the playoffs.

Pennell rejoins a Chiefs defensive tackle group that includes Pro Bowler Chris Jones, Derrick Nnadi and Khalen Saunders.

Last season, the Super Bowl-winning Chiefs posted the 17th best defense in terms of yards allowed per game, but they were successful in keeping opponents off the scoreboard — ranking seventh in points allowed.

The Chiefs have unfortunately lost a few key pieces in free agency so far. Cornerback Kendall Fuller is returning to the Washington Redskins while the team has also struck out on safety Jordan Lucas, defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah and center Stefen Wisniewski.

As far as new additions, Kansas City has added veteran offensive lineman Mike Remmers and 27-year-old cornerback Antonio Hamilton.

Heading into next season, expectations are high as the Chiefs look to defend their title and return to the Super Bowl.