Who should be next in Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Honor?
By Jacob Milham
Running back Jamaal Charles
Accolades:
- First-Team All-Pro (2010, 2013)
- Second-Team All-Pro (2012)
- Pro Bowl (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014)
- Most rushing yards in franchise history (7,260 yards)
- Highest rushing yards per attempt in franchise history (5.5 yards)
- Tied for longest rush in franchise history (91 yards)
- 72 approximate value ranked 34th in franchise history
Any fan of the modern Chiefs knows how great running back Jamaal Charles was with the ball in his hands. While Charles will likely never see Canton, the least Kansas City can do is add him to the Hall of Honor.
A former third-round pick, Charles recorded more than 1,300 yards from scrimmage in five different seasons. His rookie year was not remarkable, but he became the team’s leading rusher in 2009. Charles had one of his greatest games that year, dashing the Denver Broncos’ playoff hopes while rushing for 259 yards and two touchdowns. The Chiefs won 44-24 in the season’s final game, and Charles gave fans hopes for the next season.
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The Chiefs never saw great team success when Charles was at his best, but he guided the offense through some tough times. Charles’ Kansas City career ended with a whimper in 2016, due to injuries catching up to him. Charles’ concussion history and knee injuries hampered his career, making him a “what if” model.
No matter his lost seasons or contract issues, Charles will always be remembered fondly as a Chief. Fans would tune in to see his next great feat, despite dreadful team play. Charles was right on the fringe of the Chiefs contending, and it is a disappointment that his career gets lost at points. The Chiefs can ensure that today’s fans know what an incredible player Charles was, by rightfully inducting him into the Hall of Honor.