While today’s Kansas City Chiefs are synonymous with Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Andy Reid, the franchise’s roots trace back to the American Football League (AFL) and a decade of dominance that set the stage for their modern-day success. Let’s rewind the clock to the 1960s and explore the origins of this iconic franchise.
From Dallas to Kansas City: A New Beginning
Though their story began in Dallas as the Texans, the franchise truly blossomed after relocating to Kansas City in 1963. Seeking a larger market and a passionate fan base, owner Lamar Hunt moved the team north, where they were embraced with open arms. The name “Chiefs” honored Kansas City mayor H. Roe Bartle, whose nickname was “The Chief.”
Hank Stram: The Architect
At the helm of this burgeoning powerhouse was head coach Hank Stram. Known for his innovative offensive strategies and fiery personality, Stram instilled a winning culture and assembled a roster of talented players who would become AFL legends.
Offensive Firepower
The Chiefs’ offense was a force to be reckoned with. Quarterback Len Dawson, a future Hall of Famer, orchestrated the attack with precision and poise. He connected with receivers like Otis Taylor, a deep threat with incredible speed and agility, and Chris Burford, a reliable target known for his clutch catches. Running back Mike Garrett provided a balanced attack, adding a powerful running game to the Chiefs’ arsenal.
Defensive Dominance
The Chiefs’ defense was equally formidable. Linebackers Bobby Bell and Willie Lanier, both Hall of Famers, anchored a unit known for its speed and aggressive play. Defensive end Buck Buchanan, another Hall of Famer, provided a relentless pass rush, disrupting opposing offenses. This defense was a key factor in the Chiefs’ success.
AFL Champions
The 1960s saw the Chiefs rise to the top of the AFL. They captured three AFL championships (1962, 1966, and 1969), showcasing their dominance in a league filled with talented teams. Their 1966 championship earned them a spot in the first-ever AFL-NFL World Championship Game (later known as Super Bowl I), where they faced the mighty Green Bay Packers. Their 1969 AFL Championship Game victory over their bitterest rival, the Oakland Raiders, placed them in Super Bowl 4.
Super Bowl IV Glory
In 1970, the Chiefs reached the pinnacle of professional football. Led by Len Dawson, who was named Super Bowl MVP, they defeated the Minnesota Vikings 23-7 in Super Bowl IV. This victory cemented their place in football history and solidified their legacy as one of the AFL’s greatest teams.
Pete Brewster, a wide receiver who won NFL championships playing for head coach Paul Brown in Cleveland, was an assistant coach for the Chiefs when they won Super Bowl IV. He shared his stories on The Game Before the Money Podcast.
A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence
The Kansas City Chiefs of the 1960s left an indelible mark on the AFL and the NFL. Their innovative offense, stifling defense, and championship pedigree set a standard for excellence. This era established the Chiefs as a force to be reckoned with, laying the groundwork for the franchise’s continued success in the decades to come.
HBCU Impact
Many former HBCU stars powered Kansas City’s AFL success. Star receiver Otis Taylor won back-to-back national championships at Prairie View, where he was a teammate of the Chiefs’ starting defensive back, Jim Kearney. Another starting defensive back, Jim Marsalis, played college football at Tennessee State, as did Willie Mitchell and Noland “Super Gnat” Smith. Hall of Fame linebacker Willie Lanier excelled at Morgan State. Hall of Famer Buck Buchanan, the first-overall pick of the 1963 AFL Draft, played for the legendary Eddie Robinson at Grambling. One of Kansas City’s scouts, Lloyd Wells, played a role in Kansas City signing legendary HBCU football players.
