Kansas City Chiefs Franchise History

The Kansas City Chiefs, with their vibrant red and yellow jerseys and roaring fans, are synonymous with NFL excellence today. But their journey began not in Kansas City, but across the state line in Dallas, as the Dallas Texans. Founded in 1960 by Lamar Hunt, the Texans were part of the upstart American Football League (AFL) that challenged the NFL's dominance.

The Texans made an immediate impact, winning the AFL Championship in their second year under the legendary coach Hank Stram (pictured below). However, Dallas proved an unsuitable market for two professional football teams, and in 1963, the Texans made the bold move to relocate to Kansas City, becoming the Kansas City Chiefs.

Kansas City embraced the Chiefs with open arms. Led by the electrifying quarterback Len Dawson, the team quickly established itself as a force in the AFL. They battled against iconic figures like Joe Namath and the New York Jets, culminating in a 23-7 victory in Super Bowl I, the AFL's crowning moment before merging with the NFL.

The Chiefs continued their success in the merged league, reaching the Super Bowl four times in the 1970s. However, they couldn't overcome the Oakland Raiders, losing each time. Finally, in 1983, under the leadership of coach Marty Schottenheimer and the magical play of quarterback Joe Montana brought happier days, but not titles.

The following years saw the rise and fall of Chiefs legends like Derrick Thomas and Tony Gonzalez. The team experienced periods of both triumph and struggle, but never lost its passionate fanbase.

In 2013, a new era began with the arrival of Andy Reid as head coach and Patrick Mahomes as quarterback. Mahomes, with his gunslinging style and athleticism, quickly became a fan favorite and one of the league's most exciting young players.

Patrick Mahomes Kansas City Chiefs Quarterback
In 2020, the Chiefs, led by Mahomes' MVP season, finally scaled the mountain again, defeating the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV. It was a moment of pure joy for a city that had waited 50 years for another championship.

Today, the Kansas City Chiefs stand as one of the NFL's most successful and exciting teams. From their humble beginnings in Texas to their triumphant return to Kansas City, their story is one of resilience, passion, and a never-say-die attitude.

Relive the improbable Hall of Fame career of Emmitt Thomas, an undrafted defensive back who became a cornerstone of the Kansas City Chiefs' defense.

"Lockdown" Legend: The Unbelievable Journey of Emmitt Thomas

Born on June 3, 1943, in Angleton, Texas, Emmitt Thomas defied expectations from the very beginning of his professional football journey. Despite his impressive 6-foot-2, 192-pound frame and undeniable athletic talent, the defensive back from Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, went unselected in the 1966 NFL Draft. However, the Kansas City Chiefs, recognizing his potential, signed him as a free agent, a decision that would prove to be one of the franchise's shrewdest moves.

College Career:

Emmitt Thomas honed his skills at Bishop College, a historically Black college. While primarily known for his defensive prowess in the pros, Thomas showcased his versatility in college, playing wide receiver and even some quarterback in addition to his duties in the secondary. It was his athletic ability and raw talent that caught the eye of a Chiefs scout, leading to his unexpected opportunity in professional football.

Road to the Pro Game:

Going undrafted presented a significant hurdle, but Thomas seized his chance with the Chiefs. He made the team in 1966 and quickly proved his worth. Despite the initial oversight by other NFL teams, Thomas's talent and dedication shone through, earning him a spot on the Chiefs' roster and the beginning of a remarkable career.

Football Legacy:

Emmitt Thomas became a cornerstone of the Kansas City Chiefs' defense for 13 seasons (1966-1978), establishing himself as one of the premier cornerbacks of his era. His impact on the franchise is undeniable, setting a Chiefs' club record with 58 career interceptions, a mark that still stands. The 1969 season was particularly special, as he led the AFL with 9 interceptions, followed by an incredible playoff performance with three more picks, including one in the Chiefs' Super Bowl IV victory over the Minnesota Vikings. In 1974, he recorded an astounding 12 interceptions, just two shy of the NFL record at the time. A five-time All-AFL/AFC selection and five-time Pro Bowler, Thomas also earned All-NFL honors in multiple years during the early 1970s. His consistent excellence and ball-hawking abilities earned him a well-deserved enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008. His journey from an overlooked prospect to a Hall of Famer exemplifies perseverance and talent.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats: Pro Football Hall of Fame (2008)
Super Bowl Champion (IV)
AFL Champion (1966)

5-time Pro Bowl selection (1968, 1971, 1972, 1974, 1975)

5-time All-AFL/AFC selection (1969, 1971, 1972, 1974, 1975)
All-NFL First Team (1974)
All-NFL Second Team (1969, 1971, 1975)
AFL Interceptions Leader (1969)
NFL Interceptions Leader (1974)
Kansas City Chiefs Career Interception Leader (58)
NFL Career Stats: 181 games played, 58 interceptions, 937 interception return yards, 5 interception touchdowns.