Hunt ready to 'shock the world' in 2nd stint with Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs signed Kareem Hunt to their active roster from the practice squad this week, and the veteran running back can't wait to play for the team again.

"I'm excited to go shock the world and show that I still have it," Hunt said Wednesday, according to Rob Collins of Fox 4 Kansas City.

"It's been a long time coming," Hunt added. "I can't wait to put on the red again and go out there with these guys and put it all on the line for them. I envision going out there and doing whatever I'm asked to do at the highest level."

Kansas City recently agreed to a one-year contract with Hunt after losing Isiah Pacheco, who will miss six-to-eight weeks because of a fibula injury. Hunt began his NFL career with the Chiefs, who drafted him in the third round in 2017. He led the NFL with 1,327 rushing yards as a rookie and recorded 1,202 scrimmage yards and 14 total touchdowns in just 11 games in 2018.

"My first thought on walking into the building was that it smelled the same," Hunt said. "It looks the same and it brought back so many memories. I couldn't be more excited to play for coach (Andy) Reid."

He continued: "Honestly, I didn't think I would ever be back here. It's crazy how things work out."

The Chiefs released Hunt midway through the 2018 campaign after a video surfaced of him pushing and kicking a woman in a hotel. Hunt then signed with the Cleveland Browns in 2019 and spent the last five seasons with the AFC North club.

Once one of the NFL's most promising tailbacks, the 29-year-old hasn't averaged more than 4 yards per rushing attempt since the 2021 season. He posted only 3 yards per carry in 2023, the lowest single-season mark of his career.

"It was hard not being a part of teams that won Super Bowls. I had to think positive," Hunt said.

In his second stint with K.C., Hunt is expected to share the backfield with running backs Carson Steele and Samaje Perine. Steele, an undrafted rookie, made his first NFL start in Week 3, carrying the ball 17 times for 72 yards in a win over the Atlanta Falcons. The reigning Super Bowl champions will play the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 4.