Kyle Long is going from a unit that dreamed about being Andy Reid’s offense to actually playing in Andy Reid’s offense.
The ex-Bear is Kansas City bound:
Former Bears' Pro Bowl guard Kyle Long, who came out of retirement this off-season, is signing a one-year deal worth up to $5 million with the Kansas City Chiefs, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 17, 2021
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Long’s return from retirement is happening, with his next stop being with the Kansas City Chiefs. It’s a one-year deal worth up to $5 million. A hearty deal for a player who was out of the league last year.
At the peak of his powers, Long was one of football’s best offensive linemen. Long earned Pro Bowl honors in each of his first three seasons. That he did that while playing right guard and right tackle is pretty impressive. But after missing just one game in his first there years, injuries took a toll on Long in the next four. From 2016-19, Long failed to finish a full 16-game season and missed 34 games. Injuries pushed Long into retirement before his age 32 season. But after a year off, he’s back in the game. And frankly, I’m happy for him.
Am I worried that injuries could pop up and derail his return? Sure. But that’s because I’m a worrier. But I’m also rooting for him to go get a ring. So long as it isn’t at the expense of the Bears, of course.