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The Kansas City Chiefs already handed out a historic extension to quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Now, one of his key blockers looks poised to be paid next.
Center Creed Humphrey is signed through the 2028 season. But when it comes time to address his extension, Bill Barnwell of ESPN is predicting he’ll be the first center to break $30 million annually.
“[Graham Barton] might theoretically be joined in that 2029 class by Humphrey and [Tyler] Linderbaum, both of whom will be free agents after the 2028 campaign. I would expect both players to be negotiating extensions in 2028, and between the two, most NFL observers believe Humphrey to be the better center, Barnwell wrote. “There are seemingly annual concerns about Humphrey snapping the ball too low on a regular basis, but his quickness and ability to block defensive tackles one-on-one make him an essential part of the Kansas City offense.”
“Barring a turnaround from Cam Jurgens in Philadelphia, I’d expect Humphrey to be the first center to approach $30 million per season on a new deal, with Linderbaum and Barton close behind,” he concluded.
Humphrey has started all 85 games possible since his arrival to the Chiefs in 2021. He has been named a Pro Bowler every year except his rookie season and has been named All-Pro the past two seasons. Of course, Humphrey has also won two Super Bowls in Kansas City.
During the 2025 season, his 88.8 grade from Pro Football Focus was the best among 40 centers. As was his 84.1 run blocking grade. Humphrey’s 88.5 run blocking grade ranked second. Needless to say, it’s not shocking why the center is soon expected to receive the bag.
The Chiefs still have some time before Humphrey will start pushing for that extension. But if Kansas City wants to retain him long-term, they better be ready to pay up.
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