The Kansas City Chiefs are heading to Super Bowl 58 after defeating the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship Game. A big reason for the win and Kansas City’s success all season has been its defense.
A big part of that defense has been linebacker Drue Tranquill, who signed with the Chiefs over the offseason. Following the team advancing to the Super Bowl, Tranquill revealed head coach Andy Reid’s pitch. What is it?
Drue Tranquill Reveals Andy Reid’s Offseason Pitch
Tranquill spent the first four seasons of his career with the Los Angeles Chargers after being drafted in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. During his time in Los Angeles, Tranquill started 27 games and saw action in 47. He compiled 298 total tackles (19 for loss), 6.5 sacks, and one interception.
However, following the end of his rookie contract, the Chargers weren’t interested in bringing Tranquill back. “I was a little surprised the Chargers didn’t want to bring me back,” said Tranquill on the Ross Tucker podcast in May.
Nevertheless, with the Chargers no longer interested in bringing Tranquill back, Kansas City stepped in.
“The Chiefs were adamant all week that they really wanted me,” said Tranquill. Following their advancement to the Super Bowl, he released a screenshot of a text between Reid and himself. “See Red and think Super Bowls,” said Reid.
See Red and think Super Bowls 😉 pic.twitter.com/cdL7InAI4e
— Drue Tranquill (@DTranquill)
“So excited, talking to Andy Reid, talking to the linebackers coach, talking to [general manager] Brett Veach,” said Tranquill. “They’re stoked to have me, they really wanted me, really pursued me hard.”
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Ultimately, Tranquill signed a one-year contract worth $3 million. The deal included $2.45 million guaranteed and a $1.4 million signing bonus. He will once again be an unrestricted free agent following the 2024 season but could return to the Chiefs if there’s mutual interest.
Since signing with Kansas City, Tranquill has had one of the best seasons of his career. He had 78 total tackles, seven for loss, 4.5 sacks, and zero interceptions. He started eight games for the team, playing in 16 total.
In addition to his regular-season performances, Tranquill has been a key piece for the Chiefs in the playoffs. Against the Ravens, he had eight total tackles, leading the team. He also added seven tackles (one for loss) against the Buffalo Bills and four tackles against the Miami Dolphins.
The Chiefs and Tranquill will now face the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl. The game will take place in Las Vegas on Feb. 11, at 6:30 p.m. ET. Fans will be able to watch the game on CBS with Jim Nantz and Tony Romo on the call.
As the 2023 NFL season comes to a close, the 2024 NFL Draft is on the horizon. Pro Football Network has you covered with everything from team draft needs to the Top 100 prospects available. Plus, fire up PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator to put yourself in the general manager’s seat and make all the calls!
