The NFL world was left reeling after the Kansas City Chiefs announced their Week 1 depth chart, revealing a surprising decision to list defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi as a starter alongside All-Pro teammate Chris Jones. The move, reported by KSHB-41’s Nick Jacobs on X on August 29, 2025, caught fans and analysts off guard, especially given Nnadi’s recent journey back to Kansas City following a brief stint with the New York Jets.
A Whirlwind Trade Back to Kansas City
Nnadi, a 6-foot-1, 317-pound powerhouse, signed with the Jets in free agency during the 2025 NFL offseason. However, his tenure in New York was short-lived. In a surprising trade, the Jets sent Nnadi, along with a conditional 2027 seventh-round pick, back to the Chiefs in exchange for a conditional 2027 sixth-round pick. Reflecting on the trade, Nnadi shared his mixed emotions before a recent practice session.
Embed X: https://twitter.com/Jacobs71/status/1961504022453428695
“Honestly, it was a little bit of a surprise,” Nnadi said. “I was getting my body right for the next day of work, and then the GM called me and was like, ‘Hey, just wanted to let you know we’re trading you back to KC.’ The only part I was really a little annoyed about was like, I gotta move again. There’s stuff over there at my old place that is still in boxes, so I’m like, ‘At least it will be a lot easier to just put it in the truck and go.’ But otherwise, I was fine with the decision.”
Despite the inconvenience of relocating, Nnadi expressed gratitude for returning to the team that drafted him in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. “Yeah, I felt a little hurt because this was the team that drafted me, but at the end of the day, they gave me the opportunity of a lifetime coming out of college,” he said. “It’s part of the business, so when the Jets offered me the opportunity, I was like, ‘By all means.’ How this business works, I am right back where I started. So, it kind of works out the right way sometimes.”
A Proven Champion
Nnadi’s return to Kansas City is a homecoming for a player who has been a key part of the Chiefs’ recent dynasty. A former Florida State standout and third-team All-ACC selection, Nnadi has earned three Super Bowl rings with the Chiefs (LIV, LVII, LVIII). His contributions on the field have been consistent, with 233 career tackles, 5 sacks, two pass deflections, a forced fumble, and a memorable interception against Philip Rivers in a 2019 Monday Night Football victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.
In the 2024 regular season, Nnadi recorded 11 total tackles across 17 games, including one start, and added a sack in the postseason. His experience and familiarity with the Chiefs’ defensive scheme likely played a significant role in the team’s decision to reintegrate him as a starter alongside Chris Jones, with Omarr Norman-Lott and Jerry Tillery listed as backups.
A Shocking Depth Chart Decision
The Chiefs’ decision to name Nnadi a Week 1 starter has sparked widespread discussion across the NFL community. After a brief departure to the Jets, many expected Nnadi to serve in a rotational role upon his return. Instead, Kansas City’s coaching staff, led by Andy Reid, has shown confidence in the veteran’s ability to anchor the defensive line as they prepare for their season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers on Friday, September 5, 2025.
The Chiefs are looking to rebound from a Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, a game in which Nnadi took the field at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. With the season kicking off at home, the Chiefs aim to set the tone early against a familiar AFC West rival. The game, airing on YouTube with an 8 p.m. EDT kickoff, will be a chance for Nnadi to prove that the Chiefs’ bold decision was the right one.
What’s Next for Nnadi and the Chiefs?
As the NFL season begins, all eyes will be on Nnadi and the Chiefs’ defensive front. His unexpected return to a starting role has added an intriguing storyline to Kansas City’s quest for another Super Bowl title. With his championship pedigree, physical presence, and resilience in navigating the business side of the NFL, Nnadi is poised to make an immediate impact.
The NFL world may be stunned, but for Derrick Nnadi, it’s just another opportunity to shine in the city where he’s already cemented his legacy.