As the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for the upcoming football season, a fascinating story unfolds around the number 72. It's not just about the jersey number of an international player, but a number that carries significant weight in the team's history. In my opinion, the Chiefs' No. 72 jersey is a symbol of the franchise's evolution and the players who have left their mark on the team. What makes this particularly intriguing is the journey of these players and how they've shaped the team's identity. Let's take a closer look at the players who have worn the No. 72 jersey and the impact they've had.
The Legacy of the No. 72
The Chiefs have had a rich history with the No. 72 jersey, and one player who stands out is Eric Fisher. As the team's No. 1 overall pick in the 2013 NFL draft, Fisher became an integral part of the Chiefs' success. It took him a few years to establish himself as a reliable left tackle, but he eventually became a cornerstone of the team's offensive line. Fisher's journey is a testament to the importance of patience and perseverance in the NFL. His reliability and consistency made him an underappreciated presence, but his impact was undeniable.
Another player who wore the No. 72 jersey is Glenn Dorsey, a top-5 pick who didn't quite live up to his potential. Dorsey's story is a reminder that even the most promising players can face challenges in their NFL careers. It's a fascinating contrast to Fisher's journey, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the NFL.
The Return of Bieniemy and the Running Backs
Now, let's shift our focus to the 2025 season and the running backs. Kareem Hunt's 72% catch rate on 25 targets is a notable achievement, but it's worth noting that it's just slightly lower than Isiah Pacheco's rate of 73% on 26 targets. This raises a deeper question: Why have the Chiefs struggled with hitting 'easy button' plays like quick passes to running backs in recent years? In the 2022 season, under offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, three running backs topped these marks. The return of Bieniemy to the team in 2026 could potentially bring back the running backs as dependable targets in the dropback game.
A Symbol of Change and Evolution
The No. 72 jersey is more than just a number; it's a symbol of change and evolution within the Chiefs franchise. From Fisher to Dorsey and now to the international player Chukwuebuka Godrick, the No. 72 jersey has been worn by players from diverse backgrounds and with different journeys. This diversity is what makes the Chiefs' story so captivating. It's a reflection of the team's commitment to giving opportunities to players from all walks of life.
In conclusion, the No. 72 jersey is a powerful symbol of the Chiefs' history and the players who have shaped the team's identity. From Fisher's reliability to Dorsey's potential and the running backs' struggles, the No. 72 jersey tells a story of perseverance, evolution, and the unpredictable nature of the NFL. As the Chiefs gear up for the upcoming season, the No. 72 jersey will continue to inspire and remind us of the team's rich history and the players who have left their mark on the franchise.
