Securing top talent remains paramount for NFL teams striving for sustained success, and the Kansas City Chiefs have made a significant move to ensure their offensive line remains one of the best in the league. In a bold and strategic decision, the Chiefs have extended center Creed Humphrey's contract through the 2028 season, a move set to bolster their offensive front for the foreseeable future.
The extension, a four-year deal worth $72 million with a substantial $50 million guaranteed, spotlights Humphrey as the highest-paid center in the NFL, with an average annual value (AAV) of $18 million. This landmark deal sends a clear message: the Chiefs are committed to maintaining stability and excellence at the heart of their offensive operations.
Drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft as the No. 63 overall pick out of Oklahoma, Humphrey wasted no time making an impact. He stepped into the starting role immediately and has been a stalwart ever since. Remarkably, Humphrey has never missed a start in his three NFL seasons, underscoring his reliability and resilience.
Humphrey's performance continues to impress. In the 2023 season, he allowed only 16 pressures and four sacks, showcasing his prowess in protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes and anchoring the offensive line. His efforts played a pivotal role in the Chiefs' triumphant campaign that culminated in their Super Bowl LVIII victory against the San Francisco 49ers.
With two Pro Bowl selections and a second-team All-Pro nod under his belt, Humphrey's credentials are undeniable. His leadership and presence on the field have been instrumental in the Chiefs securing two Super Bowl titles during his tenure, and his influence extends beyond his on-field performance.
Playing alongside fellow linemen Joe Thuney and Trey Smith, Humphrey forms part of a formidable trio that has consistently kept defenses at bay, ensuring Mahomes has the protection he needs to execute the Chiefs' dynamic offense. Entering the 2024 season, Humphrey is ranked as CBS Sports' No. 1 center, a testament to his elite status and unwavering impact.
Humphrey's contract extension not only solidifies the offensive line but also provides a critical mentorship component for younger players. His leadership will be crucial in grooming the next generation of linemen, ensuring the Chiefs' offensive front remains a team strength.
As Kansas City eyes continued success, Humphrey's presence will be a cornerstone of their strategy. His role in their ongoing pursuit of excellence cannot be overstated, and the extension marks a significant investment in the team's future. By securing Humphrey for the long haul, the Chiefs have taken a decisive step in maintaining their status among the NFL's elite.
In the high-stakes arena of professional football, securing top talent like Creed Humphrey is more than just a transaction—it's a commitment to sustained success and a declaration of a franchise's ambitions. With Humphrey firmly in place, the Kansas City Chiefs are poised to remain a dominant force for years to come.