Former Chiefs All-Pro Sends A Bold Message to KC After…

The Kansas City Chiefs are working hard to win a third consecutive Super Bowl. While the Chiefs kept numerous key starters, punter Tommy Townsend left for free agency.

The writing was on the wall when Kansas City signed Matt Araiza less than two weeks after winning back-to-back championships. Townsend, who was named First-Team All-Pro in 2022, did not stay unemployed long.

The 27-year-old, who joined the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2020, agreed to a two-year, $6 million contract with the Houston Texans in March. On May 18, Townsend returned to Kansas City to attend the second annual musical festival hosted by Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. In an interview with Harold R. Kuntz of Fox 4 KC, Townsend described his return to Kansas City as “incredible.”

“It’s become a second home to me,” Townsend remarked from outside the Azura Amphitheater. “After coming back here for a few weeks, I’m going to miss it. KC was fantastic. Chiefs Kingdom is incredible. I’m just going to miss my teammates and friends in Kansas City. But it’s part of the business, so I’m looking forward to what comes next.”

Spotted at Kelce Jam .. former #Chiefs Punter Tommy Townsend. He's happy to be back in KC to hang out with former teammates . He doesn't want to rule out coming back, but excited going forward with Houston, especially coming back to Arrowhead in December. pic.twitter.com/52mgmFycfJ

— Harold R. Kuntz (@HaroldRKuntz3) May 19, 2024

While the Chiefs re-signed defensive lineman Chris Jones and adjusted Kelce’s deal this offseason, Townsend admitted that only a few players had the opportunity to play for the Chiefs on a consistent basis. However, he did not rule out a possible return.

“It’s really hard to be with the same team your whole career,” he stated. “So, I’m glad for my time in Kansas City, and I’d never rule out returning. That’s something I’d like to do someday.”

Last season, Townsend punted 59 times for 2,776 yards, an average of 47.1 yards per punt. During his four-year time with the Chiefs, 40.8% of his punts were down/fair caught within the opposing 20-yard line. On fake punts, he completed three passes totaling 40 yards.

Texans Punter Tommy Townsend Is ‘Excited’ To Face the Chiefs During the 2024 NFL Season

“I’m excited for the future with Houston, and we’ll see how everything goes,” Townsend said of his new team. The Florida alum is also looking forward to facing his former squad.

Townsend marked Week 16 after the NFL released its schedule, as the Texans will go to Arrowhead on December 21st. “I’m excited to return to Kansas City in December and play a typical cold-weather Kansas City game.” So I’m looking forward to seeing everyone and playing against all of the boys.”

Chiefs Kingdom became emotional as Townsend spoke about his former squad and city. One fan wrote, “I loved Tommy and was so sorry to see him depart, but man, he went to a wonderful team. “Texans are going to be really tough.” Someone else added, “Tommy will always be one of my favorite players and people no matter who he plays for!”

Chiefs News: Punter Position Could Be a Competition During Training Camp

Congrats Ryan!!@r_rehkow24 🤝 @Chiefs pic.twitter.com/1OUGCmPhrh

— BYU FOOTBALL (@BYUfootball) April 28, 2024

While the Chiefs hired Araiza to a one-year, $795,000 contract, they signed another punter shortly after the 2024 NFL draft ended.

Kansas City signed Ryan Rehkow, who went undrafted out of BYU, head coach Andy Reid’s alma mater. The former Big 12 punter of the year is anticipated to challenge Araiza. On April 27, Deseret News’ Jackson Payne wrote, “Ryan Rehkow vs Matt ‘Punt God’ Araiza for the Chiefs’ punting job.” It’s going to be film.”