Cameron Erving's Contract Option Reportedly Won't Be Picked Up by Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly decided to decline the fifth-year option on offensive lineman Cameron Erving, according to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.  

Garafolo noted the decision is "not a shock," as Erving is "fighting for a job this year."

All first-round picks, which Erving was in 2015 for the Cleveland Browns, come with a team option for the fifth year. However, a limited role on the Chiefs roster makes this a relatively easy decision for the organization.

The 25-year-old appeared in 29 games, starting 17, during his first two seasons in Cleveland, but up-and-down play caused him to be traded to Kansas City for a fifth-round pick.

He played a key role with the Chiefs as a backup who could fill in anywhere on the offensive line. He started games at left tackle and right guard while appearing in 13 total games. This versatility makes him a useful player on any roster.

Still, he has not shown he is worth the projected $9 million that would come with the fifth-year option, per Spotrac.

Erving will remain with Kansas City this season in a similar role before potentially hitting the open market in 2019. If he can earn a starting job somewhere on the offensive line, he could possibly earn a large payday next offseason.