The Derrick Johnson and Tamba Hali praise thread.

[BossChief]

There are a lot of players that probably won't be here in 2016, due to contract issues and other factors like Sean Smith, Jamell Fleming and Mike Devito but that's not who I want to talk about and give praise to in this thread. It's tough to think about, but every good thing eventually comes to an end. Unfortunately, time is probably coming to an end for some really good Chiefs that we drafted and kept throughout their careers.

Derrick Johnson is always gonna be beloved in KC and has given us some great memories over the last 10 seasons, but the writing is on the wall. He's close to 33 and is coming off an Achilles tear. He's also going into the last year of his contract and the team drafted 2 ILBs and re-signed it's other ILB to a multiple year deal. He has lead many goal line stands and made so many big plays over the years that it's hard to think of him not in KC going forward, but that's almost certainly the case here. Like it or not, it's probably his last year in Kansas City. I doubt he wants to continue to play at 34 years old, but who knows. Sure will be strange to see him in another uniform if he decides to continue his career elsewhere.

Another guy that's likely going into his final year with the team and most likely his final nfl season is Tamba Hali. The most consistent warrior the defense has had over the last 9 seasons and a relentless pass rusher. They like talking about "hidden touchdowns" in regards to Alex Smith...how about "hidden holding calls" in which one would think Tamba would lead the league each year. It's artwork watching the guy go against the games best and them still have to wrap him up constantly to slow him down. I know his recent contract re-write inked him for multiple years, but with each year after 2015 having only a 1m salary and the team drafting Dee Ford in the first last year, the writing is also on the wall for this great veteran. His knee isn't going to get better and has been problematic. At his age (32) injuries pile up faster than you can heal from them. I have confidence that the warrior has/will help Dee Ford become a star by showing him 2 years straight how to be a real pro...but it's hard to think of this defense without his heart and determination.

I'll really enjoy watching these 2 guys leave it all on the field this year trying to win a title. Try to appreciate it because it seems these good things are about to come to an end.

Good luck on your final ride, guys!