Thank you, Priest

It was a bit risky to begin with, even when it was simply considered a rumor spreading by word of mouth during late August. Priest Holmes was going to once again attempt to take the field of play in a Kansas City Chiefs uniform. He said it came to him in a dream; he was playing the game that he loved...he was healthy and ready to resume a career in which he was once known as one of the greatest offensive threats in the NFL.

It began in 2005 when he suffered a neck injury - the result of a hard hit by San Diego Chargers linebacker, Shawne Merriman - an injury that prematurely ended Holmes career and forced him to immediately walk away from the game he loved. He was never able to properly tell the fans goodbye - he was never able to attack the field of play knowing it would be the last time he would put on his helmet and pads. Then, in 2007, he had a dream that came to fruition. He joined the Chiefs on the practice field, later joined in full contact drills, was added to the 53 man roster and in early November, got his hands on the pigskin for the first time in nearly two years.

Chiefs fans were thrilled to see #31 back in action once again, especially when Larry Johnson experienced an ankle sprain vs. the Green Bay Packers. It looked as if Priest would have his chance to perform a few miracles for the bubble team located in Kansas City. And although he ran for only 65 yards vs. the Broncos on November 11, he looked as if his timing was beginning to click again. He showed signs of returning to the elite form that Chiefs fans hoped they would someday see again.

However, this dream was short lived. It quietly came to an end on November 18th, vs. the Indianapolis Colts, when another awkward hit to the Chiefs running back reaggravated the injury to his neck. This time, the injury wouldn't be about hoping to heal, it would be about saying goodbye.  At a time of year that is so commonly associated with giving thanks, Priest Holmes was finally able to say farewell to the game of football, offer his thanks to the fans, his family, friends and the league as he gracefully walked away.

And to you, Priest: We say thank you - for always offering your best to your team and your fans, and frustrating the heck out of opponents. It was a true pleasure to watch you play!

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