Hitchens was released by the Chiefs on Tuesday, Aaron Wilson of ProFootballNetwork.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens tallied 80 tackles (41 solo) over 15 appearances in 2021. The veteran linebacker had a $12.6 million cap hit in 2022, so the Chiefs will save $8.4 million in cap space by releasing him this offseason, per Lukas Weese of the Athletic. The 2014 fourth-round pick was a consistent producer in all four of his season with Kansas City and figures to be heavily sought after in free agency this offseason.

Hitchens tallied 80 tackles (41 solo) over 15 games in 2021.

EDGE Analysis

After playing 945 defensive snaps in 2018, the coaching staff made it a priority to get Hitchens some extra rest in subsequent seasons. His 568 snaps this season are his lowest total since his last season in Dallas back in 2017. While that isn't exactly a good thing from a fantasy standpoint, it does keep the veteran fresh and healthy. Hitchens has one more year remaining on the five-year deal he signed with Kansas City back in 2018.

Hitchens had nine tackles (four solo) during Sunday's 34-31 loss to the Bengals.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens saw an uptick in snaps to 68 percent after having only handled 48 percent in Week 17, resulting in stable production. That said, Hitchens' lack of consistency keeps him from being a confident fantasy play in IDP formats Week 18 at Denver.

Hitchens had eight tackles (five solo), an interception, a pass defensed and a quarterback hit in Thursday's 34-28 overtime win over the Chargers.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens picked off Justin Herbert in Chiefs territory to end the Chargers' second drive of the game. In addition to notching his first interception since his rookie year in 2014, Hitchens also put forth his second-highest tackle total of the season, bested only by the 12 stops he posted against Baltimore back in Week 2.

Hitchens notched seven tackles (two solo) during Sunday's 13-7 win over the Packers.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens returned from a two-game absence to record his highest tackle output since Week 2. On the season, the 27-year-old linebacker has totaled 39 tackles through seven appearances, but barring one double-digit tackle outing, he hasn't been a strong IDP play.

Hitchens (triceps) was a full participant at Wednesday's practice.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens was unavailable for the past two games due to the triceps injury, but it appears he'll return to action for Week 9. The 29-year-old has 32 tackles (22 solo) and one pass defensed in six games this season.

Hitchens (triceps) has been ruled out for Monday night's game against the Giants, Herbie Teope of The Kansas City Star reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens has already missed one game with the issue and was unable to practice again this week. Ben Niemann should fill in once again.

Hitchens (triceps) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Titans, Nate Taylor of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens suffered the elbow injury during last week's win over Washington and will be sidelined for at least one game. Ben Niemann should take on an increased role in his absence.

Hitchens (elbow) is unlikely to play Sunday against Tennessee, Sam McDowell of The Kansas City Star reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens was unable to practice Wednesday and Thursday, and his right arm was in a sling following Thursday's session. If he's held out against the Titans, Ben Niemann will likely take on additional work for Kansas City.

Hitchens (elbow) was unable to practice for the Chiefs on Wednesday.

EDGE Analysis

Hitchens injured his elbow and was forced to exit the Chiefs' Week 6 win against Washington early. In relief for the linebacker, Ben Niemann came in and replaced Hitchens for the rest of the game. After missing practice Wednesday, it's likely Hitchens won't be available Sunday for the Chiefs' matchup with the Titans. Expect Niemann to continue to start unless Hitchens is able to suit up.