The Kansas City Chiefs will have to reinvent themselves after their defeat at the hands of the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, and second-year defensive back Jaden Hicks figures to be a key part of the team’s strategy in 2025.
Hicks, a former Washington State Cougar, earned significant playing time during his rookie season with the Chiefs and is now primed to compete for a starting role in Kansas City’s defense after the departure of veteran safety Justin Reid in free agency.
In a recent article about potential breakout candidates for each NFL team, the experts at Pro Football Network tabbed Hicks as Kansas City’s most promising prospect.
Read PFN had to say about Hicks below:
“With veteran safety Justin Reid departing for New Orleans, the Kansas City Chiefs are looking to Jaden Hicks to fill a crucial role in their secondary. Drafted in the fourth round out of Washington State, Hicks exceeded expectations as a rookie, appearing in 20 games (including playoffs) and recording 42 tackles, three interceptions, and five pass breakups.
In coverage, Hicks allowed a passer rating of just 79.5 when targeted (14 targets). His steady improvement and ability to step up in big moments have earned him the trust of defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.
With Reid gone and no significant additions to the safety room, Hicks is in line for a much larger role in 2025. If he can build on the momentum from his rookie campaign, he could be one of the league’s most impactful young safeties this season.”
While Hicks still has plenty of room to grow in defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s system, his outstanding performance last season has certainly warranted high expectations for the soon-to-be 23-year-old.