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This offseason was expected to mark the official farewell for wide receiver Sammy Watkins as a manner of the Kansas City Chiefs. His cap hit wasn’t desirable and made him a likely cap casualty for the team. Instead of pursuing a more significant contract elsewhere in free agency, Watkins would decide to restructure his contract and remain with the Chiefs’ franchise, intent on winning another Super Bowl title.
The former Clemson Tigers standout has found a home In Kansas City after stints in Buffalo and Los Angeles. Watkins was a vital player in the playoffs especially Super Bowl LIV, catching five passes for 98 yards including a 38-yard reception on the game-winning drive. The 27-year-old shared his thoughts on remaining with the Chiefs during Sunday’s training camp press conference.
“Very important to stay here,” Watkins said. “What we did, winning the Super Bowl, the type of team and coaches we have, the organization, why wouldn’t I stay? I’m a guy that’s been in the league going on seven years now. I’ve been on teams that were not so good, and we weren’t winning. My job is to really stay focused. We have a well-established quarterback, well-established coaches and a well-established team. I think the fun is in the winning more than anything.”
Part of Watkins’ decision to stay was the desire to win another Super Bowl. He thinks that he can accomplish that in Kansas City.
“Coming back here was the No. 1 thing in the offseason,” Watkins said. “Why wouldn’t I come back to one of the best organizations, the best teams? And, of course, we just won a Super Bowl. If you look at the team we haven’t lost not one player who was active last year. My job and focus was to come back and win another Super Bowl and I think that’s the biggest thing.”
Winning takes precedence over money, especially when Watkins knows the money is going to other deserving teammates that help the team win and stay competitive.
“As far as my contract, I think I’ve made enough money,” Watkins said. “I mean, I’d love more money, but as far as being smart and educated on this team, knowing that you gotta pay Pat (Mahomes), you gotta pay Chris (Jones), you got a lot of guys you gotta pay. For me to take a contract like I did was a blessing. I still have an opportunity to reach up to whatever amount that I can reach up to. But really just showing the world it’s not all about money. This is my happy place. Why not take a smaller contract and come out and play with the guys I’ve been playing with?”
Watkins is often second on the Chiefs’ depth chart lined up alongside Tyreek Hill, Mecole Hardman, and Demarcus Robinson. The talented receiving corp hasn’t deterred his confidence regarding in-game opportunities.
“I just stay prepared. I stay prepared all season,” said Watkins, “When those plays are called and the opportunities are presented, I try to make the best of them. When my name has been called in the playoffs, I’ve been producing. That’s the best thing about staying prepared and staying ready for when your name is called.”
Watkins finished last season 52 catches and 673 yards making the most of each target. He will continue to be a key component of the Chiefs offense with his veteran leadership.
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