The Kansas City Chiefs are one of a number of contenders with salary cap challenges as they try to upgrade the offensive line while still getting under the threshold. They have already made tough cuts by releasing starting offensive tackles Eric Fisher and Mitchell Schwartz. Now, running back Damien Williams–who opted out of the 2020 season because of health concerns–joins the list of former Chiefs who will seek employment elsewhere.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Tuesday the Chiefs are releasing Williams, creating $2.1 million in cap space.

Nate Taylor of The Athletic reported Williams was “stunned” to learn of his release, noting the 28-year-old planned to return to the team in 2021.

Damien Williams obtained an increasingly larger role in the Chiefs backfield through the years and was essentially the starter in 2019. The undrafted back totaled 711 yards from scrimmage and seven touchdowns during the regular season.

However, Williams really cemented his place in franchise history in Super Bowl LIV. He rushed for 104 yards and had two total touchdowns, including a 38-yard run that put the game on ice with just over one minute remaining.

But there really wasn't a clear spot for Williams on this Chiefs team.

Kansas City used its 2020 first-round pick on Clyde-Edwards Helaire, who impressed in his rookie debut. Darrel Williams also looked impressive in his brief showings, especially in the playoffs.

It always seemed possible the Chiefs could move on from Williams, given their desperation for added cap flexibility and Williams' minimal dead-cap hit.

For what it's worth, Williams could appeal to any number of teams as a dual-threat back with good speed.