Alex Smith, Derrick Johnson among Chiefs who deserve Super Bowl ring

Derrick Johnson

Of all of the players on our list, Derrick Johnson’s inclusion is perhaps the toughest to defend. The Chiefs made the former Texas Longhorn linebacker their first round draft pick in 2005, and for the next 13 seasons, he captained the Chiefs defense through the worst of times and best of times. Unfortunately, he likely was not terribly influential as it relates to the Super Bowl roster, and his playing career did not end here (as he attempted to rejuvenate his career for a hated rival).

However, despite all of those points, no defensive player was more fundamental in turning around the Chiefs defense in 2013. Along with Dustin Colquitt, DJ is one of the few players who can say that he suffered through the franchise’s worst seasons.

Johnson will be a Chiefs Hall of Famer, and he’s a legend in the minds and hearts of Chiefs Kingdom. He gave everything he had to this franchise, and understood when the team had to let him go. A genuine leader, a true professional, an incredible player, DJ deserves a ring.