The Washington Commanders of the XFL have added a familiar face to their roster in receiver and special teams ace Marcus Kemp. Kemp spent the last four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, reuniting with former Chiefs assistant Eric Bieniemy who is now the offensive coordinator for the Commanders.
Kemp, who is 27 years old, played in five games for the Chiefs last season, including the AFC Championship Game against Cincinnati. He played 22 snaps on offense and had a catch for 13 yards in that game due to injuries and illnesses.
Bieniemy praised Kemp following that AFC Championship game, describing him as an “outstanding professional football player.”
“He helped (rookie receiver) Skyy (Moore) throughout the course of the game, but then he just steps up,” Bieniemy said. “Makes a catch here. He’s getting lined up. He’s making key, critical blocks for us. So I’m not shocked or surprised.”
Kemp was able to sign with another team before free agency because of his roster status, as he was not on the Chiefs’ active 53-man roster and instead was elevated from the practice squad for the team’s final game. He also did not sign a reserve future deal.
Kemp has also had previous stints with the Miami Dolphins and New York Giants.
Kemp’s signing with the Commanders is a reunion of sorts with his former Chiefs assistant, and the two are expected to have a great impact on the Washington offense. Kemp’s veteran presence and leadership in the locker room, along with his reliable hands and special teams ability, make him a great addition for the Commanders.