I heard rumblings this summer that the Kansas City Chiefs would cut Pro Bowl guard Brian Waters and I’ve heard rumblings from scouts that his skills has eroded some.

But it did come as a bit of surprise to receive the email from the Chiefs that they cut Waters on Thursday. He was a bright light for the organization and the community. He was a classy player and a classy guy off the field.

He was a leader of that team and I thought the Chiefs might stick one more season with Waters. But it’s clear the Chiefs want to transition to some younger players on the line. Jon Asamoah, taken last year, could join guard veteran Ryan Lilja as a starter. Second-round pick Rodney Hudson could also push for guard time as veteran Casey Wiegmann plays one more year at center.

Asamoah and Hudson are good, young players the Chiefs need to look at. Plus, Wiegmann and Lilja will provide veteran leadership, so I think they withstand Waters’ departure. But his presence will be missed in the locker room. He was a pro’s pro.

Waters said his release was mutual (probably because he wants to remain a starter) and he is looking to continue his career elsewhere. I think Waters would be a good fit for a rising young team that needs help on the line.

Oakland, anyone?

Perhaps I wrote that selfishly. Waters is one of my favorite interview subjects and I’d love to get a chance to continue working with him. Wherever he goes, I’m sure he’ll be missed in Kansas City and appreciated for his service there, on the field and in the community, for the past 11 years.