Priest Holmes to Retire, Kansas City Chiefs RB Expected to Make Announcement

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Kansas City Chiefs running back Priest Holmes staged a courageous comeback, but it looks like it’s going to end in retirement from the NFL tomorrow. NFL.com is reporting that “someone familiar with the situation” has said it’s definitely going to happen and to expect a press conference announcing the retirement on Wednesday.

Priest re-injured his neck this past Sunday (the same injury that kept him out of football for two years) against Indianapolis and has apparently already spoken with doctors about his situation. When you’re dealing with neck/spinal issues, I think any player would be crazy to do anything but retire. As a running back, Priest can’t be constantly cautious of sticking his head into contact. And with his history, he’d be nuts to do so. Therefore, there is only one logical choice.

Priest made two recent starts for the Chiefs and gained 137 yards on 46 attempts in four games. He would retire as the Chiefs’ all-time leading rusher with 6,070 yards. He has rushed for 8,172 yards in his 11-year career with both Baltimore and Kansas City. It will leave KC with a big problem at running back position. With Priest retiring, Larry Johnson hobbled and Michael Bennett traded to Tampa, rookie Kolby Smith is their best option.