The Kansas City Chiefs will induct their 49th player and 53rd individual into the Ring of Honor on Sunday night.
Former Chiefs LB Tamba Hali will return to Arrowhead Stadium for his induction into the Chiefs Hall of Fame during the Week 14 game against the Los Angeles Chargers. A first-round selection out of Penn State in the 2006 NFL Draft, Hali dedicated his entire 12-year career to Kansas City, participating in 177 games. His 157 career starts rank him tied for sixth-most in the franchise’s history.
Recognized as one of the most formidable pass-rushers in team history, Hali was elected to the Pro Bowl six times and was Second-Team All-Pro twice during his career. He holds the second-highest totals in sacks (89.5) and forced fumbles (33), trailing only fellow Chiefs Hall of Famer Derrick Thomas.
While he’s well removed from his playing days, Hali’s fingerprints can be found on the current Chiefs team. Hali helped train 2022 first-round draft pick, Chiefs DE George Karlaftis, during the 2023 offseason. Hali then worked alongside both Karlaftis and 2023’s first-round pick, DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah in the 2024 offseason. He trains them not only in the art of the pass rush but also trains them in Jiu-Jitsu.
“For me, it brings joy,” Hali said in May. “It feels like I’m always part of the team. Coaching is hard. I wouldn’t wish it on people to go coach. It’s hard. These guys are here early, and they leave (late). I want to give back somehow, and I live in the community. Working with George (Karlaftis) (and) working with Felix (Anudike-Uzomah). I knew where they are in their career. When I got here, it was hard on me to try to figure out how to play the position, not just from the left side but from the right side and all the different techniques they’re asking us. The coaches’ jobs here are not to teach you technique, you should already know and that’s not the case with the guys coming into the league, especially with our defensive linemen.”
Close to 100 former players will join Hali on Sunday to celebrate his induction into the Chiefs Hall of Fame. The Chiefs alumni will attend a pregame reception honoring Hali prior to his induction ceremony at halftime. Hali will also be the pregame drum leader, getting fans ready to go on the GEHA Drum Deck before kickoff.
