5 Chiefs Entering Their Last Season in Kansas City
By Joe Summers
4. Justin Reid - S
Justin Reid is a high-quality safety and natural fit for Steve Spagnuolo's defense. He's helped shape the identity of one of the NFL's best units, though I think this is his final season as a Chief as well. Similar to how the drafting of Jared Wiley shows us that Gray's time is limited, Brett Veach's recent actions indicate he's searching for a Reid replacement.
After selecting Bryan Cook in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Veach doubled down with Washington State standout Jaden Hicks in the fourth round this year. The Chiefs have notably never signed a contract extension for a member in the secondary during Veach's tenure. Trent McDuffie is in line to buck that trend, but I don't think Veach is breaking the bank twice for Reid.
Reid will only be 28 years old at the end of next season and can still command top dollar, especially if he maintains his strong play in 2024-25. He's got 178 tackles, 14 deflected passes, four sacks, and a forced fumble and interception a piece as a Chief, showcasing the versatility that will make him a highly-rated free agent.
Justin Reid gets the big hit after DeVonta Smith easily gets the first down. But watch Reid open up in coverage on Goedert in the slot before the tackle.
— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) February 15, 2023
(Plus Willie Gay running like Fred Flintstone) pic.twitter.com/2cLXdI09ja
That play in the Super Bowl illustrates the value Reid brings to a defense. He handles coverage on Dallas Goedert well, perfectly opening his hips with the break of the route. That lets him scan the field and see that DeVonta Smith had the ball, allowing him to make the big hit.
Reid is a cerebral player that'll command a hefty contract. With Cook and Hicks developing alongside Chamarri Conner, the pieces are already in place to ultimately replace him. Wouldn't it be nice to send Reid off with three Super Bowl rings, though?