Who should be next in Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Honor?

Linebacker Derrick Johnson

Accolades:

• First-Team All-Pro (2011)
• Pro Bowl (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015)
• Most solo tackles in franchise history (941)
• Most tackle assists in franchise history (213)
• Second most tackles for loss in franchise history (103)
• 101 approximate value ranked 12th in franchise history

Linebacker Derrick Johnson is a lifelong Chief. Forget the Raiders experiment, Johnson’s Kansas City career should not be ignored.

Johnson lived up to his draft selection, as the Chiefs made him the 15th overall selection in the 2005 NFL Draft. Johnson’s career spans coaches from Dick Vermil to Andy Reid. His longevity with the team is astounding on its own.

Johnson was the glue and on-field leader for the Chiefs’ defense for nearly a decade. Much like Smith though, Johnson had a rocky start to his career. However, the team never gave up on him and it paid dividends. Johnson went from only three starts in 2009 to a first-team All-Pro nod in 2011. Johnson had his best years from 2010-16, but he was a solid contributor from his rookie season on.

The Chiefs’ defense underwent a facelift this offseason, and Kansas City brought in vocal, competitive defenders. IF they want a franchise great to emulate, look no further than Johnson. He embodies many traits that a defensive leader should show, no matter how the team is performing.

The Chiefs Hall of Honor will be incomplete until Johnson is added. His longevity, example, and passion made him one of Kansas City’s best players for years. Make sure future fans never forget him.