Kansas City, MO – May 3, 2025
Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu opened up Thursday about his absence for most of the 2024 season, attributing it to a torn ACL suffered in the 2023 AFC Championship Game. Speaking to reporters, the 27-year-old expressed gratitude for Chiefs Kingdom and sought their support as he gears up for a full return in 2025, following a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Omenihu, who recorded seven sacks in 11 games in 2023, was sidelined after tearing his ACL against the Baltimore Ravens, missing Super Bowl LVIII and the first 12 weeks of 2024. He returned in Week 13, playing nine games with one sack and three tackles-for-loss, but admitted his knee wasn’t fully recovered. “Rehab was grueling,” Omenihu said. “I pushed to play, but I wasn’t myself. I’m stronger now and ready to dominate.”
With $12.7 million in cap space, Kansas City re-signed Omenihu to a one-year, $7 million deal, banking on his pass-rushing prowess alongside George Karlaftis. The Chiefs, who drafted Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith, aim to bolster a defense that allowed 4,012 passing yards in 2024. Omenihu’s return is pivotal, especially with Mike Danna cut.
“Chiefs Kingdom, y’all kept me going,” Omenihu told fans. “Stick with me—I’m coming back stronger.” Coach Andy Reid praised his grit: “Charles is a beast.” With three remaining picks, including No. 226, Kansas City eyes receiver depth to replace DeAndre Hopkins. Omenihu’s comeback, fueled by fan faith, ignites Chiefs Kingdom’s 2025 Super Bowl dreams, promising a ferocious defense to propel Mahomes’ title chase.
