C Creed Humphrey
2021 stats: 17 games, 17 starts, 9 AV
Contract: Four years, $5,565,208
2022 cap hit: $1,264,820
Cap hit rank: 31st amongst NFL centers
Center Creed Humphrey is good. No ifs, and, or buts about it.
A second-round selection in 2021, Humphrey was the logical final piece to that offseason’s offensive line rebuild. It was somewhat surprising that he was available to the Chiefs at 62nd overall, as many scouts and analysts viewed him higher. But, the other teams’ loss was Kansas City’s gain.
Humphrey started all 20 games for the Chiefs, with only one penalty all year. He was, far and away, the team’s best option at the center. Also, PFF had him as the league’s best center in the early season, a notable feat for a rookie. Ultimately, Humphrey was snubbed for Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors despite leading Pro Bowl fan voting at his position.
Much like Smith, Humphery is a foundational piece for the Chiefs’ offensive unit. His cap hit will never exceed $2 million until he is a free agent in 2025. Below-average offensive linemen can command hefty contracts, but the Chiefs need not worry. Because, at the end of the day, Creed is good.