Kansas City, MO – May 1, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs’ fanbase reeled Wednesday as a former first-round pick signed a one-year, $2 million deal with AFC West rival Denver Broncos, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The defection, a stinging betrayal after a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, has Chiefs Kingdom erupting in disbelief and frustration.
The ex-Chiefs running back, a two-time Super Bowl champion, logged 1,891 career rushing yards with Kansas City, peaking at 803 yards as a rookie in 2020 (NFL.com). His 223 yards in 2024, overshadowed by Isiah Pacheco’s 935 yards and Kareem Hunt’s return, led to his release in December. “He’s a Bronco now? That hurts,” tweeted @ChiefsVibe, while others raged: “Traitor!” (@ArrowheadFury).
The Chiefs receive: Nothing, as the player was an unrestricted free agent.
The Broncos receive: A veteran running back on a one-year, $2 million contract ($2 million cap hit in 2025).
With $12.7 million in cap space, Kansas City, who drafted Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith, prioritized youth over the veteran (Spotrac, ‽web:19). Their 28th-ranked rushing attack (1,392 yards) and Rashee Rice’s suspension risks pushed GM Brett Veach to focus elsewhere. “We wish him well,” Veach said curtly.
Coach Andy Reid stayed focused: “We’re building for 2025.” The Broncos, seeking depth behind Javonte Williams, capitalized on the veteran’s versatility (789 receiving yards career). With three remaining picks, including No. 226, Kansas City eyes receiver depth to replace DeAndre Hopkins. The signing, a gut-punch to Chiefs Kingdom, intensifies the Chiefs-Broncos rivalry, as fans brace for their former star to haunt Arrowhead in 2025, fueling Kansas City’s resolve for Super Bowl redemption.
