The Kansas City Chiefs have enjoyed a storied legacy throughout their history, and these 50 players have been the best to ever wear the uniform.
The Kansas City Chiefs are enjoying their 59th season of professional football. The first 10 campaigns came in the American Football League, after team owner Lamar Hunt founded the upstart league. Hunt wanted to become an owner in the National Football League, but had his hopes dashed. In response, Hunt changed the sport forever by creating the rival AFL.
The Chiefs were originally known as the Dallas Texans, spending three years in the Lonestar State. The Texans won the 1962 AFL Championship, beating the Houston Oilers in double overtime. After moving to Kansas City for the 1963 season, the Chiefs won the AFL title in 1966 and 1969, losing Super Bowl I to Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers before winning Super Bowl IV in an upset over the Minnesota Vikings.
Over the years, there have been plenty of highs and lows. However, even in the rougher years, there has been talent flowing through both Kansas City Municipal Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium. This is a franchise with a proud tradition, and one that deserves to be remembered and celebrated.
With that in mind, this is the list of the 50 greatest Chiefs of all time. There are plenty of offensive and defensive stars, with a few special teams players mixed in. Of course, Kansas City has one of only two pure kickers to ever make the Hall of Fame, so that man is a certainty here. But where does he and the other 49 rank? Let’s get down to business.
Next: No. 50 and No. 49
Nov 2, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs fans show their support during the first half against the New York Jets at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
50. Gary Barbaro
Barbaro played during the dark ages for the Chiefs from 1976-82. Many people are probably not even aware of who Barbaro is, despite him being in the team Hall of Fame. Barbaro was a third-round pick out of tiny Nicholls State and immediately became one of the top safeties in the game. Unfortunately, he was lured away by the upstart United State Football League at the start of the 1983 season.
Barbaro was a three-time Pro Bowler and notched 39 interceptions in his brief career. Considering he only played seven seasons and 101 games, that is an insane number. Barbaro sits fourth all-time on the Chiefs interception list which is headed by Hall of Famer and current defensive backs coach, Emmitt Thomas.
49. Lloyd Burress
We find another safety from the 1980s at the 49th spot. Burress paired with Deron Cherry to form perhaps the best safety duo in the NFL during that time period. Burress was known as a hard-hitter who could both play in the box and against the pass. Burress was the team’s MVP in 1985 and was inducted into the team Hall of Fame in 1999.
Burress entered the league in 1981 and spent his entire career with the Chiefs until hanging up the cleats following the 1991 campaign. Burress finished up his playing days with 22 interceptions and four touchdowns, along with 2.5 sacks.
Next: N0. 48 and No. 47
48. Tim Grunhard
From 1990-2000, Kansas City never had to worry about who was lining up at center. Grunhard was a terrific player, able to handle defenders against the run and the pass. Grunhard was part of the line with both John Alt and Dave Szott, paving the way for Marcus Allen and Christian Okoye.
Grunhard made the Pro Bowl in 1999, a long overdue accolade. A second-round pick out of Notre Dame University, Grunhard more than lived up to his draft stock. Much like Saleaumua, Grunhard was always under the radar but productive every year.
47. James Hasty
After spending the first seven years of his career with the New York Jets, Hasty was signed by the Chiefs in the spring of 1995 to pair with Dale Carter. The results were terrific, with Kansas City having one of the finest defenses in the league for the next half-decade. Hasty was able to play a physical brand of football and twice made the Pro Bowl in 1997 and 1999.
Hasty was on a pair of Chiefs playoff teams that went 13-3, only to fall short in the Divisional round both years. Hasty recorded 45 career interceptions and scored four touchdowns, including a game-winner in overtime against the Oakland Raiders in 1995.
Next: N0. 46 and No. 45
Nov 30, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; A Kansas City Chiefs fan holds a sign against the Denver Broncos in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Denver won the game 29-16. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
46. Jack Rudnay
Rudnay is long forgotten by most, but he should not be. Rudnay was on Kansas City for the entirety of his career spanning form 1969-82, although he was not able to play in his rookie campaign because of injury. In the 1970’s, only Mike Webster, a Hall of Fame center for the Pittsburgh Steelers, could be considered better at his craft.
Rudney was able to make four Pro Bowls and be named to the All-Pro teams in 1973, 1974, 1975 and 1979. Rudney was the anchor of a decent line for years that was overshadowed by a poor team around it. He was incducted into the team’s Hall of Fame in 1994.
45. Jerrel Wilson
Wilson was one of the first punters in FL of NFL history who was seen as a weapon. The three-time Pro Bowler was an integral part of the Chiefs winning Super Bowl IV in 1969 and found a spot on both the AFL Hall of Fame first-team of the 1960’s and the NFL Hall of Fame’s second-team for the 1970’s, behind Ray Guy.
Wilson was a fixture with Kansas City, staying with the club from 1963-77. He finished his career in 1978 with the New England Patriots. Wilson was also a strapping guy for a punter, weighing in at 222 pounds. He, along with Dustin Colquitt, are the greatest punters in team history.
Next: N0. 44 and No. 43
CARSON, CA – SEPTEMBER 09: Wide receiver Tyreek Hill #10 of the Kansas City Chiefs takes the kickback off the first possession to score a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers in the first quarter at StubHub Center on September 9, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
44. Dan Saleaumua
Saleaumua was one of the most underrated Chiefs of the Marty Schottenheimer era. After being released by the Detroit Lions following a two-year stay, Saleaumua was picked up by Kansas City in 1989 and played there through the 1996 campaign. He made one Pro Bowl (1995) and an All-Pro team (1990). He was known as one of the best defensive tackles of the decade.
Saleaumua still holds the franchise record for recovering 18 fumbles during his tenure. At 315 pounds, Saleaumua played next to Joe Phillips and allowed Derrick Thomas and Neil Smith 1-on-1 battles on the outside, resulting in tremendous careers.
43. Tyreek Hill
Hill has only been in the league for two years and change, so it’s tough to put him any higher on the list at this juncture. Still, it’s impossible to keep Hill completely off the scroll when you consider the impact he has made both on the league and the Chiefs.
After being a fifth-round draft choice out of West Alabama, Hill made an immediate impact in his rookie season of 2016, catching 61 passes for 593 yards and six touchdowns, while adding more than 900 return yards and three scores, making him an All-Pro.
Last year, the 24-year-old exploded onto the scene from an offensive standpoint, catching 75 passes for 1,193 yards and seven scores while scaling back his return duties. In 2018, Hill appears a sure bet to be one of the most prolific receivers in the game with Patrick Mahomes throwing him the rock.
Next: N0. 42 and No. 41
Sep 29, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs fans cheer in the first half against the New England Patriots at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won 41-14. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
42. Ed Podolak
Podolak was one of the most versatile players in franchise history. The running back played from 1969-77 with the Chiefs before retiring with 4,451 rushing yards and 2,456 receiving yards. Podolak was one of the first back to play as as a dual threat out of the backfield, giving Len Dawson a nice weapon.
Podolak would likely not be on this list however if not for his performance in the Christmas Day game of 1971 against the Miami Dolphins. On that day, Podolak put on a performance for the ages, churning out 350 total yards including 85 on the ground, 110 in receiving and 155 in returns. Sadly, Kansas City lost in double overtime, the longest game ever played.
41. Dale Carter
Carter was one of the most talented players to ever put on the red and yellow, only to be derailed by off-the-field incidents that eventually led to his dismissal from the team. Carter won Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in 1992 and was named to four Pro Bowls (1994-97) and two All-Pro teams before moving onto the Denver Broncos.
Paired with James Hasty, head coach Marty Schottenheimer had the best duo of cornerbacks in the league for years. This tandem was able to continue a proud tradition at corner, taking over spots for Albert Lewis and Kevin Ross. Carter finished his career in 2005.
Next: N0. 40 and No. 39
Dec 14, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cheerleaders entertain the fans during the first half of the game against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
40. Stephone Paige
Paige sort of gets lost in the shuffle because he played during a down period for the Chiefs. Paige came to Kansas City as an undrafted free agent in 1983 and stayed with the team until his retirement following the 1992. Despite playing most of his career with almost no run game and quarterbacks such as Todd Blackledge, Paige registered 6,341 receiving yards and 49 touchdowns.
The best year of Paige’s career came in 1990 with Steve DeBerg running the show. Paige was able to put up career-highs with 65 catches and 1,021 yards. In 1985 and 1986, Paige combined to score 21 touchdowns, helping Kansas City reach the postseason for the first time in 15 years.
39. Art Still
Still came out of the University of Kentucky with plenty of expectation and he did not disappoint. The Chiefs took the hulking defensive lineman with the second-overall pick of the 1978 draft and enjoyed his talents until 1988, when he went to the Buffalo bills for the final two years of his career.
Still was selected to the Pro Bowl four times with the Chiefs and racked up 72.5 sacks, making him one of the top pass-rushers in Kansas City’s history. Only Derrick Thomas, Tamba Hali and Neil Smith have more. Still was also a two-time All-Pro.
Next: N0. 38 and No. 37
Aug 16, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs punter Dustin Colquitt (2) kicks the ball during the second half of the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Arrowhead Stadium. San Francisco won 15-13. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
38. Larry Johnson
Many people can’t stand Johnson around Kansas City, and for good reason. He never seemed happy and more bothersome, allegedly had a real problem with woman and other folks. However, just going off what he did on the field, Johnson deserves to be on this list.
After stepping in to replace an injured Priest Holmes, Johnson rushed for 6,223 career yards and 55 touchdowns, almost all of it coming with Kansas City. Johnson was a two-time All-Pro and in 2005 and 2006, cracked the 1,700-yard barrier. However, he was never the same after Herm Edwards rode him into the ground in the latter season.
37. Dustin Colquitt
Only in Kansas City would two punters make the list, but both are deserving. Colquitt signed an extension in 2013 that made him the highest-paid punter of all time, and it was well deserved. Somehow, Colquitt has only been to the Pro Bowl twice, but that does not take away what he has achieved throughout his 14-year career.
Colquitt also has a booming leg, averaging 44.9 yards per punt. At 36 years old, Colquitt is seemingly getting better each season. His father, Craig, played for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1970s and won two Super Bowls.
Next: N0. 36 and No. 35
Aug 8, 2015; Canton, OH, USA; Lem Barney (left), Marcus Allen (center) and Troy Aikman during the 2015 Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
36. Chris Burford
Burford was the first great receiver in franchise history. Burford came to the Texans when they were an expansion team and remained with the club until the conclusion of the 1967 season. Burford was part of two AFL championship teams and a participant in Super Bowl I.
Burford made the AFL All-Star team once and racked up 391 catches for 5,505 yards and 55 touchdowns. Burford’s numbers are staggering when you consider that even in the AFL, throwing the ball was nothing in comparison to today. Burford still averaged seven touchdowns per season and was inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame in 1975.
35. Marcus Allen
When Allen was drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in 1982, who could have imagined he would be so loved by Chiefs fans? Allen came to Kansas City in 1993 and although he never had a 1,000-yard season with the club, continued to be a terrific weapon both in the run and passing attack.
In five seasons with the Chiefs, Allen scored 47 touchdowns and helped Kansas City reach the AFC Championship Game in 1993. Allen was still producing even in his final year of 1997, scoring 11 touchdowns while rushing for 505 yards. Through the end, Allen always had a nose for the goal line.
Next: N0. 34 and No. 33
KANSAS CITY, MO – OCTOBER 7: Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks down the field after a long first down catch during the third quarter of the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Arrowhead Stadium on October 7, 2018 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images)
34. Joe Montana
This is a man who does not need any introduction. Yes, Joe Montana only played for two years with the Chiefs, but he had an enormous impact. The Chiefs had long been a team under head coach Marty Schottenheimer that had a great defense but struggled to score points. With Montana, Kansas City finally had a quarterback who could move the ball.
Montana was pure magic in his final two seasons, leading the Chiefs to the doorstep of the Super Bowl while performing some miracles, beating the Pittsburgh Steelers in a heart-stopper during the 1993 playoffs before capping his Montana Magic with a 1994 victory in the dying seconds over John Elway and the Denver Broncos at Mile High Stadium. Eat it, John.
33. Travis Kelce
Kelce is poised to make a huge leap up these rankings in the next few seasons. The 29-year-old tight end is quickly becoming one of the true superstars in the game today, notching Pro Bowls and All-Pro nominations on an annual basis. In his sixth year with the team, Kelce has already racked up 4,328 yards and 25 touchdowns.
If Kelce can have another four or five dominant seasons, he’ll be a good bet to make the Hall of Fame. Of course, that’s a long way off, but with Mahomes throwing him the ball in Andy Reid’s wide-open offense, anything is suddenly possible.
Next: N0. 32 and No. 31
32. Willie Roaf
Roaf only played four seasons with the Chiefs, but he was without a doubt one of the best to wear the uniform. Roaf was part of the team’s best offensive line, part of a unit that included Brian Waters and fellow Hall of Famer Will Shields. Roaf played nine season with the New Orleans Saints before joining Kansas City in 2002.
Roaf was a mountain of a man at 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds but had the feet of a dancer. Few could pull and get into space with more effectiveness, showcasing his incredible talent. Roaf was an 11-time Pro Bowler and nine-time All-Pro, including all four years with Kansas City in each category.
31. Dwayne Bowe
Bowe fizzled out toward the end of his tenure with the Chiefs, but he remains the best wide receiver this franchise has had since saying goodbye to Otis Taylor in the 1970s. Bowe endured struggles both on and off the field at times, but he managed to amass 532 catches, 7,155 yards and 44 touchdowns.
For a period of two years, Bowe was one of the top receivers in the game. Bowe caught 20 touchdowns between 2010 and 2011, helping Kansas City claim its most-recent division title. Bowe made the 2010 Pro Bowl and was also named a Second-Team All-Pro that season. In fairness to Bowe, what could have his numbers been with a decent quarterback?
Next: N0. 30 and No. 29
Dec 14, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs fans cheer from the stands during the game against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
30. Abner Haynes
It’s time to go old school again. Haynes was one of the great players in the AFL, starring for a Texans team that won the league title in 1962 before moving to Kansas City. Haynes was known for his speed and elusiveness, accounting for 12,065 yards during his career in the AFL.
Haynes had his No. 28 retired by the Chiefs and was a four-time All-Pro selection. Haynes was the star performer on the 1962 team, giving Len Dawson a terrific rushing attack. Haynes was also named to the AFL All-Time Second-Team.
29. Nick Lowery
Lowery was one of the best kickers ever to play in the NFL, known both for a strong leg and deadly accuracy. Lowery was a two-time first-team All-Pro with the Chiefs, enjoying a career that almost never happened. Lowery broke in with the New England Patriots in 1978 but was out of football the following year until joining Kansas City in 1980.
Lowery played with the Chiefs through 1993 before finishing his career with the New York Jets in 1996. The German native was inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame in 2009, and is most remembered for kicking a game-winning field goal against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1993 AFC Wild Card game.
Next: N0. 28 and No. 27
Oct 26, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Fans show their support for the Kansas City Royals with flags before the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Rams at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
28. Jim Lynch
Lynch goes under the radar in the annals of history because he played alongside Willie Lanier and Bobby Bell. However, Lynch was a tremendous outside linebacker who played with the Chiefs from 1967-77. Lynch only made the Pro Bowl once, but was consistently mentioned among the best during his playing days.
While in Kansas City, Lynch helped to bring home a championship and ultimately amassed 17 interceptions and 14 fumble recoveries. Lynch was inducted into the College Hall of Fame in 1992, two years after being put into the Chiefs Hall of Fame.
27. Tony Richardson
In many cities, a fullback who rarely carried or caught the ball would be completely forgotten. Not the case in Kansas City. Richardson was truly special at his position, breaking into the league as an undrafted free agent with the Chiefs in 1995 and playing 11 seasons with the team. During that time, Richardson led the way for both Priest Holmes and Larry Johnson.
Richardson was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro while also landing on the NFL’s 2000s All-Decade Team. Richardson also took home the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2010 while with the New York Jets and the “Whizzer” White NFL Man of the Year award.
Next: N0. 26 and No. 25
Aug 28, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; A Kansas City Chiefs helmet sits on the sidelines during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
26. Trent Green
Green was the one of the rare quarterbacks in Kansas City who understood that he was aiming for the guys in uniforms matching his. Green played with the Chiefs from 2001-06 and was prolific, leading the league’s best offense throughout that time. He was twice named to the Pro Bowl in 2003 and 2005.
With Kansas City, Green went over the 4,000-yard mark three consecutive years including 2004, when he threw for a career-high 4,591 yards with 27 touchdowns. All told, Green finished his NFL career with 28,475 yards and 162 touchdowns. Not bad for a guy who came into the league as an eighth-round pick.
25. Kevin Ross
Ross was never the biggest guy, perhaps why he was taken in the seventh round of the 1984 NFL Draft. Ross ended up being one of the top corners in the 80s and played at a high level into the 90s, staying with Kansas City through the 1993 season. Ross would bounce around afterwards and eventually retire with the Chiefs in 1997.
Ross was a two-time Pro Bowler and finished up with 38 interceptions, earning a spot in the Chiefs Hall of Fame in 2011. The New Jersey native played across from Albert Lewis throughout his tenure, giving Kansas City the best corner tandem in the game.
Next: N0. 24 and No. 23
Nov 30, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader performs before the start of the game against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium.The Broncos defeated the Chiefs 29-16. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
24. Christian Okoye
The Nigerian Nightmare was something of a fleeting comet. Okoye did not play for very long, but his career will always be remembered for the fire it brought. At 6-foot-1 and 260 pounds, Okoye played from 1987-92 with the Chiefs and was twice named to the Pro Bowl.
In 1989, Okoye led the NFL with 1,480 rushing yards and was named to the All-Pro team. He would add another 1,000-yard campaign in 1991, leading Kansas City to the playoffs for the second straight year. Okoye finished his career with 4,897 rushing yards and 40 touchdowns.
23. Brian Waters
Waters might not make it to the Hall of Fame, but he was one of the best left guards to ever suit up. Waters came into the league without any fanfare, an undrafted rookie out of North Texas in 1999. After being on the Dallas Cowboys that season, Waters came to Kansas City in 2000 and stayed there for 11 seasons.
Waters was a six-time Pro Bowler and a two-time All-Pro. The Texas native also was named the Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2009, his penultimate season with the Chiefs. Waters will always be remembered for being part of that historic line that included Will Shields and Willie Roaf.
Next: N0. 22 and No. 21
KANSAS CITY, MO – OCTOBER 13: Eric Berry #29 of the Kansas City Chiefs heads through the tunnel during player introductions before game against the Oakland Raiders October 13, 2013 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Kyle Rivas/Getty Images)
22. Eric Berry
Is there any question that Berry already belongs this high on this list? Berry is not only the most inspirational story in franchise history after beating Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in eight months, he is also a great safety. Berry was taken fifth-overall in the 2010 NFL Draft and has made four Pro Bowls along with being a First-Team All-Pro twice.
Berry is a jack of all trades. He has consistently been able to blitz, cover tight ends, drop into zone coverage and stick running backs at the line of scrimmage. At 29 years old, Berry has dealt with his share of injuries, but when healthy, he remains the best strong safety in football.
21. Jan Stenerud
Stenerud is arguably the greatest kicker to ever play. The Norwegian native was the first pure placekicker to ever be inducted into the Hall of Fame, and is a member of the NFL’s 75th Anniversary All-Time team. Stenerud was the Kansas City kicker from 1967-79 before finishing his career with the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings.
Stenerud is also in both the Packers and Chiefs Hall of Fames, showcasing his unique ability. In an age when most kickers were inaccurate, Stenerud was able to pinpoint spots with his soccer-style kicking, hitting on 66.8 percent of his kicks. Stenerud was a seven-time All-Pro and three-time All-AFL selection. His No. 3 has been retired by Kansas City.
Next: N0. 20 and No. 19
Dec 14, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs former quarterback Len Dawson beats the large drum before the game against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
20. Jerry Mays
Mays is one of the best AFL players of all-time. Named to the AFL All-Time team, this defensive end was a cornerstone for a Chiefs team that went to a pair of Super Bowls during his career. Mays played from 1961-70 for Kansas City, choosing to sign with the Chiefs over the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings out of the draft.
During his career, the NFL and AFL did not count sacks, but Mays was known as one of the top pass-rushers of his era. Perhaps most impressively, Mays never missed a game during his career. He was part of the great line of the late 60s that featured Hall of Famers Curley Culp and Buck Buchanan.
19. Albert Lewis
Lewis was a phenomenal player on both defense and special teams. A third-round pick of the 1983 NFL Draft, Lewis was stellar in Kansas City from 1983-93 before losing his mind and joining the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders from 1994-98. Lewis was a four-time Pro Bowler and a two-time First-Team All-Pro, and made the Chiefs Hall of Fame.
Lewis registered 42 interceptions and 12.5 sacks, giving Kansas City a dual threat in the secondary. Lewis was also a clutch punt-blocker, doing so 11 times. At 6-foor-2, Lewis had the size and speed to cover any receiver in the game, playing opposite Kevin Ross.
Next: N0. 18 and No. 17
The Chiefs have locked up Justin Houston until 2021. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
18. Deron Cherry
We continue down the list with another Kansas City secondary star. Cherry is tremendously underrated because most of the team he played on were terrible, but Cherry was an unquestioned man among boys. The former college punter came to the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 1981 and was converted to safety, where he became a star.
Cherry fine-tuned himself into a six-time Pro Bowler and five-time All-Pro. He was named to the NFL 1980s All-Decade team and won the “Whizzer” White Man of the Year award in 1987. Cherry racked up 50 interceptions during his career and was inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame.
17. Justin Houston
Yes, the $101 million man makes the list easily and fairly high up. Houston is entering his eighth season but has shown the capability of being a Hall of Fame-type talent when right. Houston came within a half-sack of tying the single-season NFL record for sacks with 22 in 2014, giving a glimpse of the type of dominance he can exude.
Through his 7+ seasons in Kansas City, the former University of Georgia star has 72.5 sacks. Houston is a four-time Pro Bowl and was named a First-Team All-Pro in 2015. Playing across from Tamba Hali most of his career, the duo was a devastating combination.
Next: N0. 16 and No. 15
Nov 2, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs former running back Priest Holmes on the sidelines before the game against the New York Jets at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
16. Priest Holmes
One of the most beloved Chiefs of all-time came to Kansas City as nothing more than an afterthought. Holmes was on the Baltimore Ravens when they won Super Bowl XXXV in 2000 before signing with the Chiefs during the following offseason. Holmes would explode onto the scene in 2001, leading the league in rushing with 1,555 yards.
Holmes would go on to rush for over 1,000 yards in each of the next two seasons while compiling 8,172 career rushing yards. In the three years of more than 1,000 rushing yards, Holmes also contributed at least 614 receiving yards. In 2003, Holmes set a then-NFL record with 27 touchdowns. He finished his career as a three-time All-Pro.
15. Neil Smith
We are just going to have to pretend Smith never played for the Denver Broncos. From 1988-96, Smith starred for the Chiefs as the compliment to Derrick Thomas. He finished with 104.5 career sacks and is third on the Kansas City all-time list. Smith was famous for his sack celebration, which mimicked a George Brett home run swing.
Smith was a six-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro, including once on the First-Team. Smith was named to the NFL’s 1990s All-Decade team and was inducted into the Chiefs Hall of Fame in 2006. In 1993, he led the league with 15 sacks, helping Kansas City to its first AFC West title since 1971.
Next: N0. 14 and No. 13
Dec 14, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali (91) celebrates with linebacker Dee Ford (55) after a sack against the Oakland Raiders in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 31-13. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
14. Derrick Johnson
Johnson has finished his career with Kansas City, and it was an outstanding one. Johnson is set to break the franchise record for tackles and has plenty of accolades under his belt including four Pro Bowl bids and a First-Team All-Pro designation in 2011.
Before sustaining a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 1 of 2014, Johnson had made the Top 100 NFL Players list on NFL Network each of the previous seasons. Johnson was the heart and soul of Kansas City’s defense for close to a decade, racking up five 100-tackle seasons, 27.5 sacks, 14 interceptions and 22 forced fumbles in his career.
13. Tamba Hali
Drafted with the 20th-overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, Hali was a force of nature off the edge. Hali began his career as a 4-3 defensive end but switched to a 3-4 outside linebacker in 2009 and really saw his career take off. Hali registered a then career-high 8.5 sacks that year before leading the AFC in sacks with 14.5 in 2010.
Hali finished up with 89.5 sacks, the second-most in Chiefs history behind Derrick Thomas. Hali is a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, and is known as one of the best hand-fighters at the line in league history. Hali might not make it into the Hall of Fame, but he will certainly be revered in Kansas City for generations to come.
Next: N0. 12 and No. 11
Aug 2, 2014; Canton, OH, USA; Curley Culp at the TimkenSteel Grand Parade on Cleveland Avenue in advance of the 2014 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
12. Otis Taylor
Taylor is the Chiefs player most Kansas City fans talk about as a massive Hall of Fame snub. Taylor was utterly dominant during his time in both the AFL and NFL, amassing 7,306 receiving yards and 57 touchdowns during his 11-year career with the Chiefs. Keep in mind, this was for a run-first team in a very run-first era.
Taylor was a three-time Pro Bowler and a two-time First-Team All-Pro, in an age that included Lance Alworth, Fred Biletnikoff and Don Maynard. For his career, Taylor averaged 17.8 yards per catch and in 1966 had 58 catches for 1,297 yards, good for a ridiculous 22.4 yards per reception. Taylor was a giant in the game for a decade, and deserves a spot in Canton.
11. Curley Culp
In 1968, Culp was selected by the Denver Broncos in the second round and projected to be an offensive lineman. However, Culp did not take to the idea and Broncos coach Lou Saban allowed Culp to get away to Kansas City, where he became a dominant nose tackle for the next seven seasons. Culp would move onto the Houston Oilers in 1975 and became the Defensive Player of the Year and a First-Team All-Pro.
However, Culp was every bit as good with the Chiefs. In Kansas City, Culp lined up next to fellow Hall of Famer Buck Buchanan to give head coach Hank Stram an enviable front. The duo was the anchor for a defense that arguably is the greatest single-season unit of all-time, rolling to a Super Bowl title in 1969.
Next: N0. 10
Dec 28, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) runs the ball during the first half against the San Diego Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
10. Jamaal Charles
Charles is one of those rare players who is so great, you know not to take him for granted while you are watching him. The statistics are eye-popping and yet somehow don’t do the man justice. Charles is already the Chiefs’ all-time leading rusher and will likely finish with a total that will not be eclipsed any time soon.
Charles accrued five seasons of more than 1,000 rushing yards including a career high of 1,509 in 2012. Charles mostly played behind bad offensive lines and alongside no decent receivers, yet somehow continues to dance his way toward the fringes of the Hall of Fame conversation. Charles has a yards per carry average of 5.4 for his career, far and away the best of all-time for a qualifying running back.
The Texas native is unquestionably one of the great all-purpose backs, racking up 7,561 rushing and 2,591 receiving yards with 64 combined touchdowns.
One more amazing stat: Charles has never had a season of 70+ rushing attempts in which he rushed for less than 5.0 yards per carry.
Next: N0. 9
Jan 30, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; General view of the Lombardi Trophy at press conference for Super Bowl XLIX at the Phoenix Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
9. Johnny Robinson
Robinson has a legitimate case as the most underrated safety in AFL or NFL history. Robinson has been sadly forgotten to time by most, including many Kansas City fans who have likely never heard of the six-time AFL All-Star selection. This is a man who broke three ribs against the Oakland Raiders in the 1969 AFL Championship game, yet gutted out the Super Bowl and recorded an interception and fumble recovery.
To get an idea of how great Robinson was, here is a list of his accomplishments: Super Bowl champion, six-time First-Team All-Pro, three-time Second-Team All-Pro, Pro Football Hall of Fame 1960s All-Decade team, Pro Football Hall of Fame All-Time AFL team, Pro Football Hall of Fame First Combined All-Pro team, Chiefs All-Time team, two-time league leader in interceptions and the Chiefs Hall of Fame.
Other than that, he’s average.
Robinson absolutely belongs in the Hall of Fame. He also amassed 57 interceptions and 18 touchdowns, basically playing like an old-school Ed Reed who could also play in the box against the run. Somehow, St. Louis Cardinals safety Roger Werhli is in the Hall of Fame, who has great credentials but does not match Robinson in any category.
Next: N0. 8
Feb 1, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; Lamar Hunt AFC championship trophy at the NFL Experience at the Ernest N. Morian Convention Center in advance of Super Bowl XLVII between the Baltimore Ravens and the San Francisco 49ersl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
8. Emmitt Thomas
Thomas was simply one of the best corners to ever strap on a helmet. His career started with many expectations, coming out of tiny Bishop College in 1966 as an undrafted free-agent rookie. Thomas quickly played his way into the starting lineup and took part in 13 seasons with Kansas City, registering a franchise-record 58 interceptions.
In the 1960s and 70s, few were better than Thomas at playing the bump-and-run. Thomas was the premiere cover-corner of his day along with Willie Brown of the Oakland Raiders and Herb Adderley of the Green Bay Packers, able to shut down the top receivers of the day. Thomas was given the ultimate honor by the Chiefs, retiring his No. 18.
Throughout his 13-year career, Thomas was named to the All-Pro team four times and was a five-time Pro Bowl selection. Thomas was also inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008, a long overdue accolade. Thomas came back to the organization in 2010 as a defensive backs coach and continues to oversee one of the finest groups in the game.
Next: N0. 7
Jan 29, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; General view of Super Bowl IV championship ring to commemorate the Kansas City Chiefs 23-7 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on January 11, 1970 on display at the NFL Experience at the Phoenix Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sport
7. Len Dawson
Dawson is easily the greatest quarterback in franchise history. Dawson was actually drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers with the fifth-overall pick in the 1957 NFL Draft, but flamed out by the end of the 1959 campaign. Dawson then joined the Cleveland Browns and was virtually inactive over the next two years before joining the Texans in 1962.
In his first season, Dawson led the Texans to the AFL championship before giving Kansas City a tremendous run through the 1975 season. Dawson was able to win three AFL titles and go to a pair of Super Bowls, including the upset win in Super Bowl IV. Dawson was also a terrific guy away from the field, winning the NFL Man of the Year award in 1973.
On the field, Dawson was a six-time AFL All-Star and a four-time AFL All-Pro selection. Dawson also won the Super Bowl MVP award in 1969 and was one of the most accurate passers of his era. The former University of Purdue star won four AFL passing titles and completed 57.1 percent of his passes, an astronomical number for that time. Dawson finished his career with 239 touchdowns and 28,711 passing yards.
Dawson is a Hall of Famer and had his No. 16 retired by the Chiefs.
Next: No. 6
Aug 9, 2015; Canton, OH, USA; Will Shields is introduced at the 2015 Hall of Fame game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
6. Will Shields
A member of the 2015 Hall of Fame class clearly belongs on this list, and gets a very nice spot. Shields has an impeccable resume, proving that he is one of the greatest right guards to ever play. Shields was incredibly consistent, breaking into the league as a third-round pick in 1993 out of Nebraska and playing at an All-Pro level until his retirement in 2006.
Shields got to take part in the most exciting Chiefs season since winning the Super Bowl in 1969 as a rookie, protecting Joe Montana as the team went to the AFC Championship game. Shields then was on teams in 1995 and 1997 that went 13-3 and had home-field advantage in the playoffs, only to fall drastically short.
Shields was a 12-time Pro Bowler, going every year of his illustrious career from 1995 on. Shields was a seven-time All-Pro and is a member of the NFL’s 2000 All-Decade team. Shields started in 223 consecutive games and was named to the Walter Peyton Man of the Year award in 2003, along with taking home the Ed Block Courage award in 2005.
Next: No. 5
5. Buck Buchanan
Buchanan’s story is both uplifting and tremendous. Buchanan came into professional football in 1963, at a time when black players were still fighting to prove their worth to prejudice white owners and coaches. Buchanan came out of Grambling University – a historically black school – and was so talented that he became the first black player to be taken first-overall in either league.
Buchanan more than justified his draft slot, going on to play from 1963-75 as one of the greatest defensive tackles in league history. At 6-foot-7 and 270 pounds, Buchanan was named a six-time All-AFL selection and a six-time AFL All-Star before making the NFL Pro Bowl in 1970 and 1971. Buchanan won two AFL championships, along with Super Bowl IV.
Buchanan was put into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990 and the Chiefs Hall of Fame, along with getting the prestige of having his No. 86 retired by the team. The Alabama native was a man before his time, combined freakish size with speed and agility to play great against both the pass and run.
Next: No. 4
Aug 2, 2014; Canton, OH, USA; Bobby Bell (left) and Lem Barney at the 2014 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement at Fawcett Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
4. Bobby Bell
Bell is the finest athlete in the history of the NFL at the linebacker position. Former Chiefs head coach and Hall of Famer Hank Stram once said that Bell is the only player he ever saw that could play any position and not hurt the team. This was far from hyperbole, as Bell proved to be one of the all-time greats in any era.
Entering the AFL in 1963 after spurning the Minnesota Vikings, Bell immediately became an impact player at outside linebacker. Over his 12 seasons, all with Kansas City, Bell was named an AFL All-Star six times, an NFL Pro Bowler three times, an AFL First-Team All-Pro five times and a member of the NFL 1970s All-Decade team. Needless to say, his accomplishments are many.
Bell was the first black linebacker inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, getting enshrined in 1983, three years after he was inducted into the Chiefs Hall of Fame and had his No. 78 retired. Bell was not huge at 6-foot-4 and 230 pounds, but he was incredibly fast and versatile. Bell finished his career with 40 unofficial sacks, 26 interceptions and nine touchdowns, including returning an onside kick for a score.
Next: No. 3
Feb 1, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Atlanta Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez walks the red carpet prior to the NFL Honors at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
3. Tony Gonzalez
The most dominant tight end to ever play the game. Throw out all the nonsense about Gonzalez finishing his career with the Atlanta Falcons. Gonzalez remains a Kansas City legend, a man who started the trend of finding college basketball players to make into tight ends, a la Antonio Gates. Gonzalez was not only a trendsetter but the finest pass-catching tight end in league history.
Gonzalez broke into the NFL with Kansas City after being a first-round selection in the 1997 NFL Draft. After starting off slowly, Gonzalez stole the national spotlight in 1999 when he scored 11 touchdowns. From there, Gonzalez would amass five seasons with at least 90 catches, four seasons of more than 1,000 receiving yards and two more double-digit touchdown campaigns.
When Gonzalez retired after the 2013 season, he left behind an incredible legacy. Gonzalez ranks first among tight ends with 1,325 receptions, 15,127 yards, 111 touchdowns and 14 Pro Bowl berths. Gonzalez is undoubtedly a first-ballot Hall of Famer. He ranks fifth among all players in receiving yardage and second in receptions behind only Jerry Rice.
Next: No. 2
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.
Next: The best Kansas City Chiefs player ever
Aug 2, 2014; Canton, OH, USA; Willie Lanier waves to the crowd at the TimkenSteel Grand Parade on Cleveland Avenue in advance of the 2014 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
1. Willie Lanier
Lanier tops the list, and it was no easy feat. Lanier is perhaps the greatest middle linebacker of all-time, despite many who will point to Ray Lewis and Dick Butkus. Lanier did not play with the flash of either man, but certainly has the credentials and hardware to back up his case. On a loaded 1969 Chiefs defense with five Hall of Famers (and Robinson ought to be the sixth), Lanier stood alone as the leader and top player.
Lanier began his career with the Chiefs in 1967 after being drafted out of Morgan State in the second round. Lanier won the middle linebacker job over Jim Lynch, making him the first black man to ever play the position in the AFL or NFL. Lanier would prove to be an exceptional choice, earning eight consecutive All-Pro selections from 1968-75. Lanier also was a two-time All-AFL selection and made the Pro Bowl six times.
In his illustrious career, Lanier showed off great hands with 27 interceptions. He is a member of the NFL’s 75th Anniversary All-Time team and won the NFL Man of the Year award in 1972. Lanier only missed four games throughout his career, which ultimately ended in 1977. Lanier was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986 and of course, is in the Chiefs Hall of Fame with his No. 63 retired.