The Kansas City Chiefs managed to get back to the Super Bowl for the fifth time in the past six seasons in 2024. But after a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, the Chiefs look much different than they did when they took the field in New Orleans.
Joe Thuney and Tershawn Wharton are two key pieces from last year's team that have departed over the past month. Complementary pieces such as Mecole Hardman and Justin Watson have also sought greener pastures while the Chiefs have looked to reload for 2025.
But while a lot has changed, it creates an opportunity for others to step up. That comes in the case of one member of the Chiefs who returned to the team in free agency, who believes he can replace the void that a departing veteran has left behind.
Returning Chiefs Safety Mike Edwards Wants To ‘Follow In The Footsteps’ Of Justin Reid
New Chiefs safety Mike Edwards is in his second stint with the team after signing a one-year, $2.8 million contract in free agency. After splitting time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans and Buffalo Bills last season, Edwards rejoins the team that he helped win a Super Bowl in 2023. He stated that he wants to “follow in the footsteps” of Justin Reid, who signed with the New Orleans Saints this offseason
As Mike Edwards returns to the #Chiefs, he says he sees himself taking on a leadership role and wants to try to “follow in the footsteps” of Justin Reid.
— Sports Radio 810 WHB (@SportsRadio810) April 9, 2025
Edwards joined the Chiefs after spending four years with the Buccaneers to begin his career and had a strong season in 2023. He made 51 total tackles, including two for loss, and a sack while intercepting a pass, making five pass defenses and two fumble recoveries with one for a touchdown to help the Chiefs get to the Super Bowl.
But filling Reid’s shoes is a tall order. The 28-year-old spent three seasons in Kansas City, making 265 total tackles (with 12 for loss) and four sacks in three campaigns; he also added three interceptions and a forced fumble during that time.
Reid started all but two games during his time in a Kansas City uniform and had one of his best seasons as a pro playing with Edwards in 2023, collecting 95 total tackles with five for loss, three sacks, an interception, seven pass defenses and a fumble recovery.
To help that process, Edwards said he learned a lot in his year away from Kansas City and hopes to lead by example beginning in camp.
“I would just say it definitely humbles you,” Edwards said of last year. During his interview with Sports Radio 810 WHB. “You definitely have to stay humble, stay grounded and appreciate what we’re gifted. …It’s only a select few guys that is on the roster. You’ve got a 53-man roster on 32 teams, it’s a select few guys in the world that plays at the highest level.”
Edwards also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to the Chiefs.
“I feel like this past year, even after Kansas City…it would just open my eyes to how grateful I am, and just how much harder you’ve got to work and everything. So never take anything for granted. And that really just made me work even harder. And definitely this year will be the hardest working year for sure.”
For a defense that ranked fourth in total scoring and 12th in yards per play, it will be on veterans like Edwards to fill the voids. But the Chiefs have enough to continue being an elite defense in 2025 and are hoping Edwards will be a key part of it.