5 Chiefs Making Their Final Playoff Run With Kansas City in 2025

5. Mike Pennel, DT

Mike Pennel is an 11-year NFL veteran who's spent four of those seasons with the Chiefs. Although the Topeka, KS native spent most of that time in a backup role, he still benefited from being a part of two Super Bowl runs during that stretch and a potential third this postseason.

Pennel continues to make an impact at this stage of his career. He entered Week 18 with a PFF defense grade of 66.5 (35th) and a run defense grade of 71.7 (14th), solidifying himself as one of the league's best interior defenders. That's without mentioning how he's also made an impact as a pass rusher with a career-high three sacks in 16 appearances.

Even though Pennell is still playing at a decently high level, it wouldn't be shocking if his time in Kansas City — and the NFL — ended this offseason.

The veteran defender is set to turn 34 years old in May, meaning that retirement could be on his mind. The two-time Super Bowl Champion told Chiefs insider Peter Sweeney back in July that he wants nothing more than to end his career in Kansas City. What better way to do that than by winning another ring in February?

Some athletes want nothing more than to retire on their terms, especially if they're still playing at a high level. That's why Chiefs fans shouldn't be shocked if another potential Super Bowl run results in Pennel's retirement.

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