Why do Kansas City Chiefs have number 16 on all their helmets?
Some eagle-eyed fans have spotted the addition to the head gear of Mahomes, Kelce and co. But what does it mean?
It was a positive end to the preseason for the Kansas City Chiefs as they ran out 17-10 victors over the visiting Green Bay Packers on Thursday. But ahead of their first offensive play, there was a moment of respect that will be marked throughout the 2022/23 season.
Len Dawson 16 to stay on Chiefs’ helmets
That moment in question saw quarterback Patrick Mahomes, a former Super Bowl MVP himself, line up his teammates in the ‘choir huddle’ formation. Mahomes’ 10 teammates aligned in two rows of five facing the quarterback, who let the play clock expire. Mahomes then jogged off the field, waving to the fans to cheer, and he didn’t return to action.
It was a tribute to Hall of Fame quarterback Len Dawson, another Chiefs Super Bowl MVP, who died on Wednesday at the age of 87. Dawson was well known for using that huddle formation.
Each game this season, in honor and remembrance of Len Dawson’s legacy, we will wear the number 16 on our helmets. pic.twitter.com/nQEfKhPkWe
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) August 25, 2022
As a further recognition and tribute to Dawson, the Chiefs announced that the team’s helmets for the new season would be marked with the number ‘16′ which he wore.