Eric Berry focuses on mentoring Chiefs younger defensive players

Eric Berry is a team leader through and through as he continues to focus on pouring into the youngest Kansas City Chiefs on the roster.

Eric Berry’s leadership traits have drawn attention since he roamed the secondary for the Tennessee Volunteers. Over three seasons in Knoxville, Berry rose to national prominence as a do-it-all in the defensive backfield where his character and vision were displayed right next to his ability to shut down opposing receivers or stop the run.

When the Kansas City Chiefs selected Berry at No. 5 overall, they immediately enjoyed the benefits of a young captain in the making, both on the field and in the locker room. Next to team leaders like Tamba Hali and Derrick Johnson, Berry blossomed just like he did at Tennessee, gaining plenty of attention due to his All-Pro ability that also came with a humble spirit, a team-first attitude and a love for his colleagues and community.

Yet it was when tragedy struck in the form of Berry’s diagnosis of Hodgkins lymphoma that the safety’s personal make-up became truly awe-inspiring. In the face of personal and professional loss, Berry brought a team and community together to witness a miraculous comeback—not just for the sake of show but a true return to form. We were—all of us in that moment—#BerryStrong. It was amazing to watch.

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Ever since that moment, it’s hard to put into words the sort of leadership that Berry brings to the Chiefs organization. Every team has captains, but only one team has Eric Berry. When he speaks, everyone listens (coaches included). He directs players on the field and inspires them off the field. Even when he’s been unable to play due to injury, he remains a vocal supporter, encourager and challenger as a man with nearly a decade of experience.

The good news for the Chiefs is that Berry is not only looking healthy once again but he’s also well aware of the impact he can have outside of playing safety for the team.

"“You can make an impact even when you’re not playing,” Berry explained. “You can still be in-tune to the game plan and in-tune to the situations that are happening. I have a lot of experience now, this is my ninth year. There are a lot of guys that are younger than me that can learn from what I know. So, even with the young guys, I just keep spilling in knowledge to them because I know it’s going to help us as a team.”"

While every defensive player will be better for having been on the same roster as Eric Berry, specific players like Armani Watts and Dorian O’Daniel and Tremon Smith will also enjoy being coached in the secondary by their teammate. Berry’s ability to help each player read the quarterback, be in position and trust their instincts will compound over time, aiding each player’s development in their first year at the NFL level.

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