As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for their sixth consecutive AFC Championship game, a remarkable accomplishment that solidifies their status as a modern NFL powerhouse, it’s worth reflecting on their rich history.
With another potential Super Bowl run on the horizon, now is a good time to look back at the players who have laid the groundwork for their enduring success. The Chiefs have always been known for their rabid fan base and a legacy that spans both the AFL and NFL. The Chiefs Kingdom, as they call themselves, have been fortunate to witness some of the most legendary figures play the game wearing their iconic red and gold uniforms.
From Len Dawson’s quarterbacking in the early days to Patrick Mahomes electric play in today’s era, the Chiefs have had a knack for finding talent and innovating on the field. Their history is not simply a roster of players but a tapestry of NFL evolution highlighting some of the most influential athletes in football history.
As we explore the ten greatest Kansas City Chiefs of all time, we celebrate not only their achievements and but also their collective impact on shaping the enduring legacy of the Chiefs – a legacy that continues to thrive as they once again vie for AFC supremacy.
10. Jamal Charles, RB
One of the most efficient running backs in NFL history, Charles was known for his speed and ability to make big plays. Charles’ Kansas City Chiefs career average of 5.4 yards per carry is notable because it ranks him as one of the highest in NFL history for a running back.
9. Will Shields, OL
A consistent and durable offensive lineman with an impressive 14-year career with the Chiefs, Will Shields is beloved by the Kansas City Chiefs faithful. One of the most remarkable career stats for Shields is that he started 223 consecutive games, the most in Kansas City Chiefs history.
8. Emmitt Thomas, CB
A Hall of Fame cornerback with a knack for interceptions, Thomas was a crucial part of the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense in their early years. Thomas still holds the Chiefs’ all-time interception record with 58 interceptions.
7. Priest Holmes, RB
He was an outstanding running back known for his record-setting seasons in the early 2000s. He set an NFL record with 27 rushing touchdowns in the 2003 season and was known for his red zone production as the featured back for the Kansas City Chiefs.
6. Patrick Mahomes, QB
The quarterback, who has led the Chiefs to two Super Bowl victories in the past four years after a 50-year dry spell, is known for his dynamic and innovative style of play. He may rank sixth now, but with a long career ahead of him we anticipate seeing him move up this list.
5. Bobby Bell, LB
An extremely versatile linebacker who played a crucial role in the Chiefs Super Bowl IV win and had a remarkable career in both the AFL and NFL. Crazy fact: Bell scored nine touchdowns in his professional career, unheard of for a defensive player of his era. Bell had six interceptions and three fumble recoveries returned for touchdowns.
4. Willie Lanier, LB
He was a dominant middle linebacker and a critical member of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl IV-winning team. Lanier was best known for his tackling and playmaking abilities. Lanier was one of the first African-American middle linebackers in professional football history. He helped break the racial barriers in a position traditionally not occupied by black players at the time.
3. Tony Gonzalez, TE
Widely regarded as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, Gonzalez had a fantastic career in Kansas City. Gonzalez retired with 1,325 career receptions, which was the most by a tight end in NFL history at the time of his retirement. The record speaks to Gonzalez’s longevity and consistency as a player but also his exceptional skill and reliability as a pass-catcher.
2. Len Dawson, QB
Len Dawson holds a special place in Kansas City Chiefs history as he was the quarterback who led the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl victory and was a key figure during the team’s early success. He was also named the Super Bowl IV MVP after leading the Chiefs to a 23-7 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Beloved by the community, Dawson was active in Chiefs’ social and charity events until his death in 2022
1. Derrick Thomas, LB
Derrick Thomas made an indelible impact on the NFL during his remarkable career. Renowned for his speed and unmatched ability to reach the quarterback, Thomas struck fear into opposing offenses throughout his 11 seasons in the league. He etched his name in history by setting a record of seven sacks in a single game against the Seattle Seahawks showcasing his game altering talent. As a part of the Chiefs defense, Thomas accumulated an impressive 126.5 career sacks firmly placing him among the most accomplished pass rushers of his time. With nine Pro Bowl selections and three First Team All Pro honors to his name, he demonstrated absolute dominance on the field. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when a car accident cut short his life in 2000. Thomas’ legacy lives on and is a revered figure in Kansas City not only for his dominance on the field, but also for his philanthropic endeavors off the field.