Chiefs Legend Signs One-Day Contract to Retire as Chief at 37

Chiefs banking on Justin Houston to live up to contract

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Chiefs icon Justin Houston signed a one-day contract to retire as a Chief at 37, sources told ESPN. His emotional farewell on June 28, 2025, electrified Chiefs Kingdom.

Houston said, “My eight years with the Chiefs were the best. I love the energy here—every fan lives, breathes football. Their passion pushes us. What they say reaches our staff. Chiefs Kingdom is special.”

The four-time Pro Bowler amassed 117.5 career sacks, including a Chiefs-record 78.5 from 2011-2018. His 2014 NFL-leading 22 sacks earned All-Pro honors, per Pro-Football-Reference.

Houston’s ferocity fueled five playoff runs, including a Super Bowl LV appearance. “He was our force,” GM Brett Veach said, reflecting on his defensive legacy, per Chiefs.com.

After leaving in 2019, Houston added 39 sacks with Colts, Ravens, Panthers, and Dolphins. His 2024 Miami stint ended with two tackles in a playoff loss, per NFL.com.

Slowed by a 2023 hamstring injury, Houston chose retirement over free agency. “He’s forever a Chief,” Andy Reid said, eyeing a Chiefs Hall of Fame nod, per The Kansas City Star.

Chiefs Kingdom roared: “Houston’s our legend!” fans cheered, per local reports. With $11.2 million in cap space, Kansas City chases Super Bowl LX after a 40-22 loss, per Spotrac.

 

As training camp looms, Houston’s legacy inspires. Can the Chiefs honor him with another title? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates on this heartfelt farewell!