Kansas City Chiefs are not being sentimental as they gear up to defend Super Bowl title in 2020. The team confirmed on Wednesday that they are releasing punter Dustin Colquitt, who leaves Kansas City after spending 15 seasons with the franchise.
Colquitt’s departure is most likely cap-inspired as Chiefs saved $2 million. They were down to just $3.55 million prior to his release.
Chiefs are now expected to hand over the punting duties to Tyler Newsome and rookie Tommy Townsend, who joined the team during the offseason.
“My family and I are immensely grateful for the contributions Dustin and his family have made to the Chiefs over the last 15 years,” said Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt in a team-released statement. “Dustin has cemented his place as one of the greatest punters in the history of the NFL.”
After the news broke out, Colquitt posted a message to Chiefs’ fans on his social media, writing that he “enjoyed” his time in Kansas City and adding, “Holding this post for 15 years has been an honor that I never took for granted. Thank you KC.”
Dustin Colquitt has been Chiefs’ punter since they took him in the third round of 2005 NFL Draft. Over the course of his career, Colquitt performed 1,124 punts for 50,393 yards and 98 touchbacks. He is also a two-times Pro Bowler.
