This is bittersweet news. I know it needs to be done, and I know it's the right move. But at the same time, I will miss him. One of my favorite Chiefs of all time. Thanks for the memories, DJ.

Remember when DJ returned two interceptions for touchdowns in one game

“When I restructured my deal, I voided my last year out,” Johnson said. “In order for me to come back with the Chiefs, we’d have to work on a deal or do something for a one-year type of deal.

“But the Chiefs, they wanted to go younger across the board — that’s what (general manager Brett) Veach was talking about. I wasn’t in their plans, and I understood that. They’ve got some cap issues, and even though I would have bended some to be a Chief, there really was no negotiation. I just wasn’t in the plans. And that happens; it is what it is.”


“I thought there’d be a chance we could negotiate something,” Johnson said. “But it is what it is. I appreciate Veach being straight up with me by saying, ‘Hey, this is where we’re going. I don’t want to lead you on. We appreciate and respect everything you’ve got going on, but right now, D.J., you’re not in our plans going forward.’”



“Letting go of a player like Derrick is particularly tough because of how much respect I have for him as a player and as a person,” Veach said. “He’s had a tremendous career here in Kansas City, and we wish him nothing but the best moving forward.”

Johnson told The Star that he expects to continue his playing career elsewhere this fall in pursuit of a Super Bowl ring.

“I at least want to play a couple more years,” he said. “I at least want get to 15 years in the league. Right now, I’m just chasing a ring, man. I am.


“It’s going to be a tough deal to leave Kansas City,” he said. “We knew it was coming at some point. But they say it usually comes sooner than later, and it’s here.”

Johnson made it clear that he’ll always consider the Chiefs his No. 1 team. When asked if he’s leaving with any hard feelings against the organization or Reid, Johnson said no.

“Not at all, man, not at all,” Johnson said. “I’ve had five head coaches, and he’s the best. I’ve won a lot with Andy Reid and I have a lot of respect for him. I think the world of Kansas City, so there’s no bridges burned. It’s a good, long relationship and everyone knew it would end at some point.

“I’m a Chief at heart. My kids are Chiefs fans, and I’m sure whatever team I’m on (next), my kids are gonna have two teams, I’ll tell you that.”

One of the best and classiest players in Chiefs history. I wish him well wherever he goes but the team needs to get a lot younger and faster.

I guess the question is not necessarily can he make a roster, but how much (or how little) is he willing to play for. He's probably not going to get much more if any than the veteran minimum.

Sorry your career was wasted, DJ.

Remember when DJ was the team leader on multiple home playoff wins?

That pick should have been Aaron Rodgers....

Oh well, thanks for everything DJ. You were a great Chief.

One man cant do it alone, why even go there?

See ya DJ. Thanks.

Should have told him and Hali at the same time.

Considering the shit show that was Kansas City until Andy Reid, we would have a bunch of people on here talking about Aaron was ruined by multiple coaches, bad surrounding cast and numerous play calling schemes. And they would have wanted to have drafted Geno Smith to take over for Rogers.

Could be our offensive coordinator in a few years.

DJ is a true pro and a great player. The Hunts wasted another great players career by not drafting a QB until its to late. I hope our good players now are not in the same boat. Mahomes looks good so I don't think they are.

What a class act. I appreciate that he brought the wood in the playoff game - the man played his heart out. Sadly his ability is diminishing, but he has been a good soldier through some tough times. I am glad that Reid was able to bring more “wins” for DJ to reflect on as a Chief, but sadly he never got to taste ultimate playoff success.

I will be cheering for DJ wherever he ends up (except Denver, Pittsburgh or Oakland!)

Thanks 56.