D.J. Humphries’ move to the Kansas City Chiefs marks an exciting new chapter in his career. With nearly a decade of NFL experience, he brings stability, leadership, and skill to an already strong team
As he takes the field in 2025, fans will be eager to see how he contributes to the Chiefs’ pursuit of another Super Bowl.
From his early days as a top high school recruit to his current role as a seasoned veteran, Humphries’ journey is a testament to resilience and excellence in professional football.
Whether paving the way for running backs or protecting his quarterback, he continues to prove why he is one of the most reliable tackles in the game.
D.J. Humphries has had a successful and financially rewarding NFL career. While his 2024 contract is significantly lower than his previous deals, it still provides him an opportunity to contribute to a Super Bowl-contending team.
His performance with the Kansas City Chiefs will ultimately determine his next steps in the NFL. Whether he secures another big payday or transitions to a different phase of his career, Humphries has already cemented his legacy in the league.
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Table of Contents
D.J. Humphries: Who Is He?
A Veteran Offensive Tackle’s Journey to the Kansas City Chiefs
D.J. Humphries was born on December 28, 1993, in Union, South Carolina.1
From an early age, he displayed a natural talent for sports, excelling in multiple disciplines before eventually finding his true calling in football.
Attending Mallard Creek High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, Humphries quickly became one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the country.
His combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ made him a highly sought-after recruit. Rivals ranked him as the No. 2 overall prospect in the nation, solidifying his reputation as a future NFL player.
In addition to football, he was a three-sport athlete, participating in basketball and track and field. His dominance on the field earned him a five-star rating, leading to offers from top college football programs across the country.
Thanks again Josh ! https://t.co/HcHLBSwnCW
— H U M P (@74_hump) June 27, 2021
Early Life and High School Success
Humphries chose to play college football at the University of Florida, joining the Florida Gators in 2012.
During his three-year tenure in Gainesville, he became a key piece of the offensive line, protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes for the team’s backfield.
Appearing in 30 games for the Gators, Humphries steadily improved his technique and consistency. His junior year saw him become one of the top offensive tackles in the nation, prompting him to declare for the 2015 NFL Draft.
Scouts and analysts praised his agility, footwork, and ability to adjust to different defensive schemes.
D.J. Humphries: Career
The 2015 NFL Draft: Arizona Cardinals Select Humphries
The Arizona Cardinals selected D.J. Humphries as the 24th overall pick in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft.2
The franchise viewed him as a long-term solution for their offensive line, hoping he could develop into a cornerstone tackle.
Despite high expectations, Humphries’ transition to the NFL was not without its challenges. He did not play a single snap during his rookie season, as the coaching staff opted to give him time to develop his skills.
However, he rebounded in his second season, earning a starting role at right tackle before eventually transitioning to left tackle—a position he would hold for nearly a decade.
Establishing Himself in the NFL
Over the next several seasons, Humphries solidified himself as one of the more reliable left tackles in the league.
Known for his strong pass protection and ability to handle elite edge rushers, he became a key component of the Cardinals’ offensive line.
By 2020, Humphries had emerged as one of the most consistent linemen in the NFL. His performances earned him a three-year, $45 million contract extension with Arizona. He continued to showcase his durability and leadership, starting in all 100 games of his career as of February 2025.
Injuries and Challenges
Despite his durability and high level of play, Humphries faced challenges throughout his career, including injuries that sidelined him at times.
In the 2022 and 2023 seasons, he dealt with knee and back issues, which caused him to miss several games.
However, his resilience and dedication to rehabilitation allowed him to return to the field and maintain his effectiveness.
Signing with the Kansas City Chiefs
Following the 2024 NFL season, Humphries became a free agent. His experience and proven track record made him an attractive option for multiple teams, but it was the Kansas City Chiefs who ultimately secured his services for the 2025 season.
Kansas City, led by head coach Andy Reid and star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, sought a veteran presence on their offensive line to protect their franchise player.
Humphries’ signing was seen as a major win for the Chiefs, adding depth and experience to an already formidable unit.
D.J. Humphries: Role with the Chiefs
As the 2025 NFL season begins, Humphries is expected to play a crucial role for the Chiefs. Whether as a starter or a key rotational piece, his presence will be vital in ensuring Mahomes has adequate protection in the pocket.3
Given his past performances, fans and analysts anticipate that he will bring stability and leadership to Kansas City’s offensive line.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Humphries’ experience makes him a valuable mentor for younger linemen on the roster. His years of playing at a high level, combined with his ability to overcome adversity, make him an ideal role model for up-and-coming players.
Throughout his career, Humphries has been praised for his leadership and positive locker-room presence. His veteran perspective will be beneficial to a Chiefs team looking to maintain its dominance in the AFC and make another run at a Super Bowl title.
The Evolution of Offensive Tackles in the NFL
- The modern NFL demands a lot from offensive tackles. In an era where elite pass rushers dominate defenses, tackles must be agile, strong, and technically sound.
- Humphries has exemplified these qualities throughout his career, adapting to evolving defensive schemes and refining his skills.
- His ability to adjust his blocking technique, recognize defensive alignments, and communicate effectively with his teammates has set him apart.
- As he enters the latter stages of his career, he remains a testament to the importance of adaptability and preparation.
- While Humphries is now in his 30s, he continues to play at a high level. His future in the league will depend on his ability to stay healthy and maintain his effectiveness.
- If he remains injury-free and performs well with the Chiefs, he could potentially extend his career for several more seasons.
- Regardless of how long he continues playing, Humphries has already built an impressive NFL legacy.
- His journey from a high school standout to an NFL veteran is a story of perseverance, hard work, and dedication to the game.
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D.J. Humphries: Contract Breakdown
A Comprehensive Look at His NFL Earnings
D.J. Humphries, a veteran offensive tackle, has built a successful NFL career through consistency and skill.
His contracts over the years reflect his value in the league. In this article, we break down his latest deal, his total career earnings, and how his contracts have evolved.
Details of the 2024 Contract
According to Spotrac, Humphries signed a one-year contract with the Kansas City Chiefs worth $2,000,000.
This deal makes him an unrestricted free agent (UFA) in 2025. Below is a detailed breakdown of his latest contract:
| Contract Terms | Average Salary | Signing Bonus | Guaranteed at Signing | Total Guaranteed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 yr / $2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Year | Base Salary | Cap Hit | Dead Cap |
| 2024 | $2,000,000 | N/A | N/A |
| 2025 | UFA |
How Much is D.J. Humphries Getting Paid?
Humphries’ one-year contract with the Chiefs guarantees him a total salary of $2,000,000 for the 2024 season. His annual salary reflects his experience and role as an offensive tackle, contributing to the team’s pass protection and run-blocking schemes.
Earnings Per Minute
With an annual salary of $2,000,000, Humphries earns approximately $3.80 every minute, assuming a full year of work. This calculation provides a perspective on how lucrative NFL contracts can be, even for a single season.
Comparing Humphries’ Contracts Over Time
Over his career, Humphries’ contracts have significantly evolved, reflecting his growing value in the league. Here’s a comparison of his major contracts:
| Contract Year | Duration | Total Value | Average Annual Salary | Guaranteed Amount |
| 2015 | 4 years | $8,912,112 | $2,228,028 | $7,261,824 |
| 2020 | 3 years | $43,750,000 | $14,583,333 | $29,000,000 |
| 2022 | 3 years | $51,763,530 | $17,254,510 | $32,823,529 |
| 2024 | 1 year | $2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | N/A |
The trend shows his peak earnings came in the 2022 contract extension, which had a higher guaranteed amount and average salary. His latest one-year deal with the Chiefs is significantly lower, likely due to injuries or a changing market demand for veteran offensive tackles.
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Factors Influencing Humphries’ 2024 Contract Value
There are several reasons why Humphries’ latest contract is lower than his previous ones:
1. Injury Concerns
Humphries has faced injuries in recent seasons, which may have reduced his market value. Teams often hesitate to commit large contracts to players with a history of injuries.
2. Age and Performance Decline
As players age, their performance may decline, affecting their market value. At this stage of his career, Humphries may be viewed as a short-term option rather than a long-term investment.
3. Salary Cap Considerations
NFL teams operate under strict salary caps, and the Chiefs may have limited financial flexibility. Signing Humphries to a one-year, low-risk deal allows the team to assess his impact without making a long-term financial commitment.
4. Market for Offensive Tackles
The market for offensive tackles fluctuates based on team needs and available talent. Younger, high-performing players often secure more lucrative deals, pushing veteran players into shorter-term contracts.
The Impact of Humphries’ Signing on the Kansas City Chiefs
Humphries’ addition to the Chiefs’ roster provides veteran depth and experience on the offensive line.
Here’s how he could contribute:
- Pass Protection: Protecting star quarterback Patrick Mahomes will be a top priority, and Humphries’ experience can be valuable.
- Run Blocking: His presence can help improve the team’s ground game, providing more opportunities for the running backs.
- Mentorship: As a seasoned veteran, he can mentor younger offensive linemen, helping them develop their skills.
What’s Next for D.J. Humphries?
If Humphries performs well in 2024, he may attract interest for another short-term deal or even a multi-year contract. His performance with the Chiefs will determine his future market value.
If injuries continue to be a concern, Humphries may consider retirement after the 2024 season. Many veteran players transition into coaching or broadcasting roles after their playing careers end.
If he enters free agency in 2025, potential landing spots could include teams in need of an experienced offensive lineman. Teams with young quarterbacks may value his leadership and protection skills.
D.J. Humphries’ Career Earnings
Humphries has amassed significant wealth through his NFL contracts, earning approximately $84.6 million over his career as of February 2025.
His earnings have been a combination of signing bonuses, guaranteed salaries, and performance-based incentives.
2022-2025: Second Extension with the Arizona Cardinals
In 2022, Humphries signed a three-year contract extension with the Arizona Cardinals worth $51,763,530. This contract included:
- Signing Bonus: $17,000,000
- Guaranteed Amount: $32,823,529
- Average Annual Salary: $17,254,510
This contract reinforced his role as a key component of the Cardinals’ offensive line, providing stability for the team’s quarterbacks and running backs.
2020-2022: First Contract Extension with the Cardinals
Before his 2022 deal, Humphries signed a three-year extension with the Cardinals in 2020, valued at $43,750,000. The details of this contract included:
- Signing Bonus: $2,400,000
- Guaranteed Amount: $29,000,000
- Average Annual Salary: $14,583,333
This deal came after his impressive performances from 2017 to 2019, solidifying his position as one of the highest-paid offensive tackles at the time.
2015-2019: Rookie Contract with Arizona Cardinals
Humphries entered the NFL in 2015 after being selected in the first round of the draft by the Arizona Cardinals. He signed a four-year rookie contract worth $8,912,112. The contract details included:
- Signing Bonus: $4,741,536
- Guaranteed Amount: $7,261,824
- Average Annual Salary: $2,228,028
This rookie deal set the foundation for his long-term NFL career, eventually leading to multiple lucrative contract extensions.
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