BREAKING NEWS: KC Chiefs Safety Confirms Departure As He Sent Heartfelt Message To Chiefs Kingdom
After a successful season with the Chiefs, culminating in a Super Bowl victory, Edwards has chosen to explore free agency and has signed with his third NFL team. The Kansas City Chiefs’ defense stood out as one of the NFL’s finest last season, particularly thanks to their outstanding secondary. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and defensive backs coach Dave Merritt guided an impressive group throughout the year, although one member of that group, safety Mike Edwards, will not be returning to Kansas City next season. Edwards is set to join an AFC rival.
Departing after just one season with the Chiefs, Edwards leaves behind a notable legacy, including numerous standout performances and a Super Bowl championship ring. Despite being a former third-round draft pick, Edwards proved his worth by appearing in every game for Kansas City in the 2023-24 season. He contributed significantly with 51 tackles, five passes defended, two fumble recoveries, an interception, and a sack during the regular season. In the playoffs, he continued to make an impact with another interception and 12 tackles while logging 190 snaps on the defensive side.
Thank you for everything Chiefs Kingdom! Brought me in with no hesitation and made family! Will always have a special place with me. Love forever! ❤️💛💍 https://t.co/i3ut16tT9S
— Mike Edwards (@M__Edwards7) March 20, 2024
The acquisition of Edwards turned out to be a crucial move for general manager Brett Veach, particularly after Bryan Cook’s season-ending ankle injury in Week 13. Edwards stepped up admirably, earning a spot in the starting lineup and playing a significant role in the defense. His playing time increased substantially, with him participating in at least 97% of available defensive snaps in three of the next five games, including a standout performance with 11 tackles in a Week 14 loss to the Bills. Now, Edwards finds himself joining the very franchise that defeated the Chiefs in the playoffs.
Following his signing with Buffalo, Edwards expressed gratitude to the Chiefs and their fans for his time with the team. Despite Edwards’ departure, the Chiefs remain well-equipped at the safety position. Cook is expected to return for his third season and will be paired with Justin Reid in the starting lineup. Additionally, Chamarri Conner, a fourth-round pick from 2023, is primed for an expanded role in his sophomore season, while veteran Deon Bush has re-signed for another year. The return of Nazeeh Johnson, who missed the previous season due to a torn ACL, further strengthens the depth at the position. Despite Edwards’ departure, the Chiefs have ample depth, and the emergence of Conner, alongside the return of other players, bodes well for the team moving forward. Edwards leaves Kansas City as a champion once again, having exceeded expectations during his tenure with the team.