Kansas City Chiefs: Top 50 players of all-time

2. Derrick Thomas

Every time Chiefs fans talk about a great pass rush, the name Derrick Thomas is always, and correctly, evoked. Thomas was a man among boys during his 11-year career, earning himself a spot in the Hall of Fame of both the Chiefs and Pro Football. Thomas also received the highest honor from the team, having his No. 58 retired. Unfortunately, Thomas was not around to see the gesture, passing away from complications of a car accident in early 2000.

Thomas was one of the most feared defenders of the 1990s, racking up a franchise-best 126.5 sacks. The former University of Alabama phenom was drafted by Kansas City in the first round of the 1989 NFL Draft with the fourth-overall pick, instantly turning the team into a winner along with the arrival of head coach Marty Schottenheimer. Famous for his ability to strip-sack a quarterback, Thomas still holds the team record with 41 forced fumbles.

In his prime, Thomas was virtually unblockable with his famous combination of power and speed. Thomas amassed 20 sacks in 1990, buoyed by an NFL-record seven sacks in one game. Thomas was named to nine Pro Bowls, was a six-time All-Pro and is a member of the NFL 1990s All-Decade team. Thomas also won the Defensive Rookie of the Year award and was named the Walter Payton Man of the Year award in 1993. Interestingly, he was also one of President George H.W. Bush’s Points of Light.

He was a great man and a great player. Rest in peace, Derrick.

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