Former Kansas City Chiefs who could sign 1-day retirement contracts

With multiple former Kansas City Chiefs players signing 1-day contracts, let us take a look at other Chiefs who could end up following suit.

Over the course of the last few weeks, three different former Kansas City Chiefs players have signed a 1-day ceremonial contract. This contract is just that—purely a formality to allow a player to retire with the team with whom they are most recognized. It is mostly seen in the NBA and MLB, however it does occur in the National Football League as well.

This offseason, the Chiefs honored running back Jamaal Charles, linebacker Derrick Johnson, and wide receiver Dwayne Bowe with the one-day contract. All three players were highly respected and possibly one of the best to play at their respective positions for the Chiefs.

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With such great former talent, is there anyone else who deserves to sign a ceremonial contract and retire a Chief? Let’s take a look.

1. OLB Tamba Hali (2006-2017)

When thinking of Chiefs who deserve to retire with the team, Tamba Hali is almost a no-brainer. The 5-time Pro Bowl and 2-time second-team All-Pro played with the Chiefs for 12 seasons. Considered one of the best outside linebackers in franchise history, Hali is second only to the late great Derrick Thomas in franchise sacks with 89.5. He started and played in almost every single game of his career up until the final two seasons as the Chiefs utilized him less, wary of lack of production due to his age.

Finishing 10th all-time in total tackles, second in forced fumbles, and T-13th in games played defensively, Hali had one of the best careers fans could ask for. His energy, unique play and love for the game made him a favorite of the fans. Hali is one of the most respected linebackers of his time and could surely receive the ceremonial contract to retire with the team.

2. S Eric Berry (2010-2018)

Eric Berry’s case is still a bit unsettling. After playing with the Chiefs for nine seasons, he was released by the team this offseason—mainly due to his inability to stay healthy. Berry was expected to return in the 2018 season and eventually did so, but was still dealing with lingering injuries that limited him. After the conclusion of the season, the Chiefs announced that they had released Berry who would then test out free agency. So far his only interest came via a free agent visit to the Dallas Cowboys.

The 5-time Pro Bowler and 3-time first-team All-Pro had a spectacular career with the Chiefs, ranking 7th in passes defended (51). Berry was an ultimate playmaker and incredible tackle who also added 14 interceptions, 29 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles to his career totals.

While Berry may not be done playing, his career is on a steady decline. While fans wish him success in the future, they know that his retirement is inevitable. What better way to retire than to sign a 1-day ceremonial contract with the team you spent most of your career with? If Berry was able to shake the injury bug, he would probably still be on the team. Time will tell, but Berry deserves to be remembered at some point in the future as an all-time Chief.

3. CB Brandon Flowers (2008-2013)

Despite being a member of the Chiefs for only six seasons, Brandon Flowers had one of the best careers among cornerbacks in franchise history. Flowers was a fan favorite who ranks 1st in passes defended in team history with 90 (the next closest being Eric Warfield with 78), and among the top 10 in interceptions.

Despite just one Pro Bowl appearance in 2013, Flowers was very solid for the Chiefs. After being released following that season, he went on to sign with the then-San Diego Chargers. Injuries kept him limited and ultimately led to his career being cut short, released after just three seasons, but that doesn’t take away from Flowers’ impact while in K.C. While he may not be anywhere near the conversation for best defensive player, he most certainly contributed his part to the Chiefs.

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Other honorable mentions included Neil Smith (1988-1996), Mike Bell (1979-1991), Tony Gonzalez (1997-2008), Carlos Carson (1980-1989), Priest Holmes (2001-2007), who all had lengthy careers and made an impact at their respective positions. Additionally, while he is still with the Chiefs, punter Dustin Colquitt deserves to retire as a Chief regardless of the capacity in which it is done. Colquitt is the longest-tenured player in franchise history and is regarded as one of the better punters in the National Football League. While his career is not yet over, it is nearing an inevitable end. He should, and most likely will, retire as a Chief.

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