The Kansas City Chiefs have shocked the NFL world by announcing the return of running back Kareem Hunt, marking an unexpected reunion between the two parties. Hunt, who was originally drafted by the Chiefs in 2017, had a highly successful run with the team before being released in 2018 due to an off-field incident. Hunt’s time with Kansas City ended abruptly when a video surfaced showing him involved in a physical altercation, leading to his release. At the time, Hunt admitted his wrongdoing, acknowledging that he hadn’t been fully honest with the team about the incident.
Since leaving Kansas City, Hunt spent five seasons with the Cleveland Browns, where he proved himself as a valuable asset, amassing over 3,300 yards from scrimmage and 32 touchdowns in 64 games. However, his performance in 2023 was not as impressive, recording career lows in both yards per carry (3.0) and yards per reception (5.6). Despite this, the Chiefs saw an opportunity to bring him back after learning that their starting running back, Isiah Pacheco, would be out for 6–8 weeks due to a fractured fibula.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid discussed Hunt’s return. Reid emphasized that Hunt’s growth and maturity played a significant role in the decision to re-sign him. Reid stated, “He’s 29 years old now, so time flies, but he looks like he’s grown up some.” The head coach further explained that Hunt’s time in Cleveland showed signs of positive development, both on and off the field. Reid and the Chiefs were reassured after speaking with the Browns’ management and coaches, all of whom spoke highly of Hunt’s progress.
Reid also noted that Hunt has remained close with several Chiefs players, including star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. In fact, Hunt attended Mahomes’s wedding, further strengthening the bond between the two. According to Reid, Mahomes and Hunt’s continued friendship and the endorsements from Cleveland made the Chiefs feel confident in giving Hunt a second chance.
When asked about Hunt’s past and the reasons behind his release in 2018, Reid reiterated the team’s stance that Hunt needed a change of scenery and time to focus on personal growth. With Hunt’s return, the Chiefs aim to help him integrate back into their system and potentially see him on the field as early as Week 3 against the Atlanta Falcons.
Hunt’s reunion with Kansas City may raise eyebrows, but it also offers a narrative of redemption and second chances, as the Chiefs are betting on the running back’s maturity and ability to contribute once again.
