The Kansas City Chiefs are keeping a key special-teams veteran for another season. Long snapper James Winchester has agreed to a fully guaranteed one-year deal worth $1.65 million. The deal ensures stability in the kicking game as the Chiefs look to retool their roster after the 2024 NFL season.
Winchester has been with Kansas City since 2015 and remains one of the longest-tenured players on the roster. He has played in all 164 regular-season games since joining the team, making him a crucial piece of the Chiefs’ special teams unit.
James Winchester’s Reliability and Experience
Since being with the Chiefs Winchester has been a model of consistency throughout his tenure in Kansas City. He has taken 1,431 career snaps without missing a single game, proving his durability and reliability. His experience makes him a key asset in a special teams unit that has remained among the NFL’s best.
Alongside punter Matt Araiza and kicker Harrison Butker, Winchester continues to anchor a strong kicking game. His return ensures the Chiefs maintain one of the league’s most well-rounded special teams groups heading into 2025.
A Veteran Presence in Kansas City
Winchester originally signed with Kansas City as an undrafted free agent out of Oklahoma. Over the years, he has become a steady presence and leader within the locker room. His longevity with the team trails only tight end Travis Kelce, making him one of the franchise’s longest-serving players.
This new contract pushes Winchester’s career earnings past $10 million, according to Spotrac. He previously signed a one-year deal in 2024 and continues to be a trusted piece of Kansas City’s championship-winning core.
Final Thoughts
With the Chiefs signing new players from other teams and losing some of their own, a move like this allows the team to retain some stability in one of the core parts of their team. Winchester has shown over the years with his consistent play, that with him returning to Kansas City for another year, their kicking game will continue to be a seamless operation heading into the upcoming season.
As the Chiefs continue to navigate free agency, moves like this one will continue to be a priority. Retaining veterans is one of the building blocks of any championship-level team, and that holds true with Winchester staying in Kansas City. His time with the Chiefs has been invaluable as the team looks to keep other core players as free agency continues.
