Super Bowl Champion’s Replacement Called Chiefs’ ‘X Factor’ Entering 2025 Season
The Kansas City Chiefs parted ways with veteran safety Justin Reid this offseason. The seven-year veteran and two-time Super Bowl champion signed with the New Orleans Saints in free agency. In his stead, 2024 fourth-round draft pick Jaden Hicks.
ESPN’s Benjamin Solak tabbed Hicks as the Chiefs’ “X factor,” a list that could not include quarterbacks, rookies, or coaches.
At any rate, Hicks has big shoes to fill.
Jaden Hicks Tabbed as Chiefs’ ‘X Factor’ Entering 2025 Campaign
Chiefs Need Jaden Hicks to Step Up This Season
“There are a few key names for the three-time AFC champs as their roster consistently churns, including left guard Kingsley Suamataia and corner Kristian Fulton. But I’m focused on Hicks, a 2024 fourth-rounder tasked with stepping into Justin Reid’s vacated shoes,” Solak wrote on August 28.
“Reid was the quarterback of that defense — versatile enough to play anywhere on the field, tight enough in man coverage to solve opposing tight ends and always good for a timely tackle in space on third down. He was a consistent mistake-eraser, and for as much as I like Hicks — who looked quick and smart as a rookie — it’s unlikely he brings that level of steady, heads-up production. Expect to see Hicks tested in coverage early, but it might be Reid’s reliable tackling against the run that is most missed early in the season.”
Hicks, 23, is not stepping into the starting lineup completely green, though.
Hicks was the No. 133 overall pick of his draft class. He logged one start while playing in all 17 games for the Chiefs as a rookie. He finished the regular season with 29 total tackles, 5 pass deflections, and 3 interceptions, showcasing his playmaking capability.
Jaden Hicks Could Be Replaced as Chiefs’ ‘X Factor’
Main Photo: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Hicks will be key to the Chiefs’ success. However, the true “X factor” may not be on the roster just yet. ESPN’s Dan Graziano advised, “Don’t be surprised” if the Chiefs trade for an RB this season.
“Isiah Pacheco is healthy and ready to resume the lead back role the team planned for him before his early-season broken right leg last year, but the room is thin behind him. Veteran Kareem Hunt just turned 30, and the Chiefs might use rookie Brashard Smith in a more nontraditional role that takes advantage of his receiving skills,” Graziano wrote on August 27.
“The Chiefs could use a third-down back with some pass protection ability and will be looking at trade and waiver possibilities as rosters get tinkered with ahead of Week 1.”
The Chiefs re-signed former first-round draft pick Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
He was cut by the Saints. His return could signal that the team is comfortable with where they are. Hunt has produced when called upon. They also know they will go as far as Patrick Mahomes takes them.
It could become clear early on that Mahomes and the passing game are not clicking. That is particularly true with Rashee Rice suspended for six games. If so, acquiring backfield help could make sense.
Then, the Chiefs could find themselves relying on other new contributors besides Hicks.
Patriots Shock: Insider Reveals Startling Update on Injured Rookie FB
The New England Patriots are sending shockwaves through their fanbase as an insider drops a major update on their injured rookie fullback, a player many expected to make an immediate impact this season. Sources close to the team suggest the situation is more serious than initially reported, leaving fans and analysts scrambling to understand the full implications for the Patriots’ backfield and offensive schemes.
The rookie, who burst onto the scene with impressive preseason performances, had been pegged as a key weapon in short-yardage and goal-line situations, and early concerns about his injury now have the organization weighing multiple contingency plans. Patriots coaching staff and medical teams are reportedly in constant discussions, attempting to balance the player’s long-term health with the team’s immediate needs.
While the team remains tight-lipped publicly, the insider’s revelation has stirred debate across NFL circles. Some analysts argue that the Patriots might rethink their offensive strategies, potentially leaning more on veteran backs and tight ends if the rookie’s recovery timeline extends further than expected. Others speculate that a quick return could make him a breakout star, one whose impact will define the Patriots’ early-season success.
Fans are now closely monitoring every practice report, social media update, and insider tip, with the rookie’s health becoming a flashpoint for both optimism and concern. With New England aiming to compete at the highest level, this update could reshape expectations and force rapid strategic adjustments.
The situation also raises questions about the Patriots’ depth and resilience, testing the team’s ability to adapt when key young talent faces setbacks. One thing is certain: all eyes are on the organization as they navigate this unexpected twist, with implications that could ripple through the season.
