Kansas City Chiefs All-Time Greats: Ranking the 10 Best Chiefs Players
By Jason Bolton June 16, 2025 09:42
The Kansas City Chiefs, one of the NFL’s most storied franchises since their founding in 1960, have produced a wealth of legendary talent. With four Super Bowl titles and a recent dynasty featuring multiple championship appearances, the Chiefs’ history is rich with iconic players who have shaped the team’s identity. Here is a ranking of the top 10 greatest players to ever don the Chiefs uniform, blending statistical excellence, accolades, and impact on the franchise.
1. Patrick Mahomes (QB, 2017–Present)
Despite a relatively young career, Patrick Mahomes has already cemented himself as the greatest Chief of all time. With two NFL MVP awards, three Super Bowl titles, and three Super Bowl MVPs, Mahomes has revolutionized the quarterback position. His playoff passer rating of 105.6 and 17 postseason wins in just seven seasons underscore his dominance. Mahomes’ ability to make clutch plays and lead game-winning drives has made Kansas City perennial contenders and a global brand.
2. Derrick Thomas (LB, 1989–1999)
Derrick Thomas was a defensive force and one of the most feared pass rushers in NFL history. A nine-time Pro Bowler and Defensive Rookie of the Year, Thomas still holds the NFL record for most sacks in a single game with seven. His career total of 126.5 sacks remains a Chiefs franchise record. Thomas’s relentless pursuit and playmaking ability made him a cornerstone of Kansas City’s defense throughout the 1990s.
3. Len Dawson (QB, 1962–1975)
Len Dawson guided the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl victory in 1970 (Super Bowl IV), earning Finals MVP honors. Known for his accuracy and leadership, Dawson was a seven-time AFL All-Star and a key figure in the franchise’s early success. His calm demeanor and clutch performances helped establish the Chiefs as a dominant force in the AFL and NFL merger era.
4. Tony Gonzalez (TE, 1997–2008)
One of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, Tony Gonzalez redefined the position with his receiving ability and durability. A 14-time Pro Bowler, Gonzalez ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in receptions and receiving yards. His presence gave the Chiefs a reliable offensive weapon for over a decade and set the standard for modern tight ends.
5. Travis Kelce (TE, 2013–Present)
Kelce has emerged as one of the most prolific tight ends ever, known for his route-running, hands, and yards-after-catch ability. He has been a key component of the Chiefs’ recent success, earning multiple All-Pro selections and helping lead Kansas City to multiple Super Bowl appearances alongside Mahomes.
6. Bobby Bell (LB, 1963–1974)
A versatile linebacker and key member of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl IV championship team, Bobby Bell was a dominant defensive player and a Hall of Famer. Known for his speed and coverage skills, Bell was an eight-time AFL All-Star and a vital part of Kansas City’s defense during the 1960s.
7. Emmitt Thomas (CB, 1966–1978)
A shutdown cornerback and five-time Pro Bowler, Emmitt Thomas was crucial in the Chiefs’ defensive success in the late 1960s and 1970s. He holds the franchise record for interceptions with 58, ranking 12th all-time in NFL history. Thomas’s ball-hawking ability helped the Chiefs win Super Bowl IV.
8. Priest Holmes (RB, 2001–2007)
Holmes was one of the most dominant rushers in the early 2000s, leading the NFL in rushing yards and touchdowns multiple times. Despite going undrafted, Holmes became a three-time First-Team All-Pro and was instrumental in Kansas City’s offense during his prime years.
9. Buck Buchanan (DT, 1963–1975)
A towering defensive tackle and eight-time Pro Bowler, Buchanan was a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ defense during their 1960s and 1970s success. He helped anchor the defensive line that won Super Bowl IV and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1990.
10. Chris Jones (DT, 2016–Present)
Jones is a dominant interior defensive lineman, known for his pass-rushing ability and run defense. A multiple-time Pro Bowler, Jones has been a key factor in the Chiefs’ recent championship runs, providing pressure up the middle and anchoring the defensive front.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ all-time greats represent a blend of offensive brilliance, defensive dominance, and championship pedigree. From Patrick Mahomes’ transcendent talent to Derrick Thomas’ relentless pass rush and Len Dawson’s leadership, these players have defined the franchise’s identity and success over six decades.
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