Championship teams are built on talent, but dynasties? They thrive on tough decisions. The Kansas City Chiefs have spent the last few years assembling one of the most dominant squads in NFL history, but even the best rosters aren’t immune to change. This offseason, Andy Reid and co. had to make a call that wasn’t just about football—it was about the future.
A longtime defensive staple, a key contributor to multiple Super Bowl runs, and a player who bled Chiefs red and gold—gone. Just like that. The franchise bid farewell to a $31.5 million star, sending shockwaves through the fanbase. But before the dust could settle, the Chiefs wasted no time in bringing back a crucial weapon for Patrick Mahomes, making it clear that they aren’t slowing down anytime soon.
15 years ago, the NO Saints finished the 2009 season as Super Bowl XLIV winners. Their only Lombardi till date. For the residents of Louisiana, it was a moment of glory. A 13-year-old boy celebrated the monumental achievement with his friends and family members. No one knew back then that the boy would go on to win 2 Super Bowl rings (he has played 3!) He’s none other than safety Justin Reid. The 3rd round pick (68th overall) of the 2018 draft played 4 seasons for the Texans before Andy Reid brought him to the Chiefs in 2022. It was the start of a glorious journey.
In 3 years with the Kansas City franchise, Reid won Super Bowl LVII against the Eagles in 2022 and Super Bowl LVIII against the 49ers in 2023. However, after hitting free agency for 2025, the veteran player has moved on to his home state. The NO Saints signed him on a 3-year $31.5 million deal. The franchise is undergoing a transformation under new HC Kellen Moore. As the news spread, his former team paid tribute to one of their best players.
The Chiefs first shared a video of highlights from different games. It showed Justin Reid in different Super Bowls, pumped up, tackling the rivals. They aptly captioned it, “Thanks for kickin’ it with us, @JustinqReid ” In 3 seasons with the Chiefs, the safety played 49 games (all as a starter) and recorded 3 interceptions, 23 defended passes, and 265 tackles (194 solo). That’s impressive!
Thanks for kickin’ it with us, @JustinqReid pic.twitter.com/UsxwuLUTND
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) March 15, 2025
Hence, they had to thank him double time. The Chiefs shared another post on X, with his photo and captioned it, “J Reid is a champ, indeed. Appreciate everything @JustinqReid!” The time at the franchise was fruitful for both sides. While the team won SBs, the safety gained popularity. He became a feared name in the football world. So, he also replied with gratitude and mentioned, “Will always love you Kansas City! ”
With this, the mood in the locker room has also changed. QB Patrick Mahomes is on a revenge tour. TE Travis Kelce has also come back for one last dance. The task is enormous. But the head coach is also ready and making sure the team is in shape.
Andy Reid brings back main WR
It was uncertainty that was the Chiefs’ biggest enemy last year as their players kept falling to injuries. Rashee Rice was dealing with a looming suspension. Rookie receiver Xavier Worthy hadn’t matched his speed to consistency on the gridiron. Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown was unavailable. Then came the old savior Juju Smith-Schuster. The Chiefs’ quarterback was happy.
He had run some highlight plays with the receiver in their victorious 2022 campaign. As soon as the NE Patriots released him, the Chiefs brought him back into the fold on a 1-year deal. Now Andy Reid is bringing him back to the franchise for another year, per NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero. That’s a huge plus.
In 8 seasons so far, the 2nd round pick (62nd overall) of the 2017 draft has played 104 games (80 as a starter) and has 448 receptions for 5,279 yards and 32 touchdowns. Additionally, he also has 35 receptions for 353 receiving yards and 2 TDs in playoffs. So, Andy Reid knows he can trust the receiver in crucial moments.
The coming season is a tribulation for the Chiefs. Their ‘dynasty’ reputation is on line after the dramatic 22-40 loss against the Eagles in SB LIX. They need to win it all back. The respect, the trophy, the attention! In free agency, at least. they are making the right moves.
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