It’s hardly surprising that Khalen Saunders will find a new home in free agency shortly. The former Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman was expected to be a sought-after player in NFL free agency as a late bloomer who likely has his best football ahead of him.
As it turned out, Saunders found his new home with the New Orleans Saints on the first official day of the new league year—and the official start of free agency. The Saints won the bidding and will now use his developing skills up front on a defense that includes recognizable names like as defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon and safety Tyrann Mathieu. Former Chiefs safety Dan Sorensen is a free agent who may return.
Khalen Saunders has now shared an emotional farewell message to his former team. Saunders apologized for sharing it late, as he insisted it took him all day to figure out how to say what he needed to and fit it on one post.
“Kingdom 🥹😭 got a message for y’all before i dip out. Took me all day to figure out how to say what i needed to and fit it on one post. Getting the graphic together so forgive me, and give me a few more mins. However I’ll just say i have 2 simple words, Forever Grateful”.
And to the gang, im thankful that our room molded to exactly what it needed to be.
Love and nothing but love,
99 out❤️💛✌🏾 pic.twitter.com/WJNOof0hCE— Binky 2Times (@khalenNOTkaylen) March 15, 2023
Saunders took some time to grow for the Chiefs, but the increase in competitiveness and the need for further coaching were always on his scouting report. But, ailments took their toll on him, including a devastating elbow injury during his second season, robbing him of critical repetitions.
Last year, while healthy for the first time since his rookie year, Saunders posted career highs in virtually every imaginable statistic. He then went on to have a terrific playoff run, making memorable plays in crucial times to help the Chiefs eventually reach and win Super Bowl LVII.
