Patrick Mahomes leads heartfelt Chiefs tributes after Allen Bailey's death at 37

Some sad news hit Chiefs Kingdom this morning, as it's been confirmed that former Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Allen Bailey has passed away, according to TMZ. Bailey was 37 years old.

TMZ reported that "Allen's brother, Alford Bailey Jr., tells TMZ that Allen's wife found him dead yesterday inside their Florida home. We're told the family believes he died from natural causes."

Remembering Allen Bailey's career with the Chiefs

Bailey was a third-round pick by the Chiefs in 2011 out of Miami and got on teams' draft maps after he posted 14 sacks in his final two years with the Hurricanes. He really started to come into his own in Kansas City by the fourth year of his career, tallying five sacks in 2014. He went on to post a career-high six sacks in 2018.

Bailey might not have been a part of the dynasty teams, departing just before the Chiefs went on their Super Bowl runs, but he was still on some excellent Chiefs squads. He was a key piece of the 2015 defense, helping a team that started 1-5 rip off 10 straight wins and reach the playoffs. He was also part of the 2018 team that saw Patrick Mahomes take over as the starting quarterback, win MVP, and lead Kansas City to the AFC Championship Game.

Bailey spent the final two years of his career as a member of the Atlanta Falcons before retiring in 2021.

Patrick Mahomes speaks of supporting Bailey's family

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes had the chance to play with Bailey for a couple of seasons. During his media session on Wednesday, he added some reflections of his own. First, Mahomes described Bailey's imposing profile as a key welcome-to-the-NFL moment for him.

"I was just talking about it with some of the QBs. I tell this story every year with the QBs. He was the first person I saw when I stepped into the locker room. I think it was after the draft and they were in OTAs and I see Allen Bailey, and I was like, 'This isn't the Big 12 anymore.' It was surreal to see him. I tell that story every single year."

Mahomes also spoke about what Bailey meant to his teammates and pledged to support his family however possible.

"Obviously, it's terrible to hear the news that we heard. A great teammate. I think you see him, and he's one of those glue guys on the team. He makes plays, not necessarily the superstar, but he makes everything go. It was terrible to hear that news a little later last night. We're praying for his family and know that all of his teammates—we've talked, and we're going to do whatever we can to support those guys."

Former teammates join in remembering Allen Bailey

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid also spoke about Bailey during his press conference on Wednesday and said he was one of his favorite players. "A great kid. I'm sorry to see that happen," Reid added.

Former Chiefs offensive lineman Jeff Allen paid tribute to Bailey on social media and said, "Lost a teammate, a friend, a brother. God needed another angel. Rest easy, my brother."

Colin McCarthy, Bailey's former teammate at the University of Miami, posted a tribute to Bailey on Tuesday night. "Lost a fellow brother today… prayers to AB family! Love you Big Cuzzo!"

Bailey's loved ones are in our thoughts, and he will always be a cherished member of Chiefs Kingdom. Rest in peace.

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