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Chiefs' Reserve Player Refuses to Play to Make Way for Potential Young Rookie

Chiefs’ Nazeeh Johnson Steps Aside to Give Rookie Nohl Williams a Chance in Camp

Kansas City, MO – August 2, 2025, 5:28 PM

In a powerful display of the Kansas City Chiefs’ team-first culture, third-year cornerback Nazeeh Johnson made a selfless choice during a 2025 training camp scrimmage. As head coach Andy Reid prepared to allocate significant defensive reps to Johnson for a key session on Saturday, the 2022 seventh-round pick requested to sit out, advocating for rookie Nohl Williams to take the field instead.

“I’ve had my fair share of chances to shine,” Johnson said post-practice. “I don’t need another highlight—but he does. He needs a shot.”

Chiefs DB Nazeeh Johnson enters the concussion protocol

Moved by Johnson’s gesture, the coaching staff agreed. Williams, a third-round pick from California in the 2025 draft, known for his All-American honors and seven interceptions in 2024, capitalized on the opportunity. He played most of the scrimmage’s defensive snaps, recording a pass breakup and showing promise as a potential starter alongside Trent McDuffie.

Johnson’s decision embodies the Chiefs’ ethos of unity and sacrifice. Having overcome a 2023 ACL injury and earned a Super Bowl ring in 2022, Johnson, with 10 tackles and a sack in 2024 against Denver, has proven his worth. Yet, he chose to uplift Williams, who is competing for a crucial role in a stacked secondary. Williams, visibly grateful, credited Johnson’s mentorship for his readiness.

Chiefs Rookie Minicamp with CB Nohl Williams

Patrick Mahomes lauded Johnson’s selflessness. “That’s what makes Chiefs Kingdom special,” Mahomes said. “Guys like Nazeeh put the team above themselves.” Fans on X echoed this, with posts like, “Johnson’s a true Chief—paving the way for the future.”

Head coach Andy Reid praised the move: “Nazeeh’s heart drives our success.” As training camp intensifies and the Chiefs chase a Super Bowl three-peat in 2025, Johnson’s act sets a powerful tone for a roster rooted in camaraderie. In a league often fueled by individual glory, Johnson’s choice to step aside for Williams underscores the Chiefs’ legacy—built on players who prioritize team success over personal accolades. This moment in camp inspires Chiefs Kingdom, reinforcing their collective drive for another championship run.

 

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Roster Move: Right after the injury of DT Milton Williams, the Patriots immediately signed the former Chiefs star to the practice squad to strengthen the defensive depth ahead of the showdown with the Bengals
Foxborough, Massachusetts – November 19, 2025 Immediately after the news that defensive tackle Milton Williams suffered a long-term injury and will be sidelined, the New England Patriots made an urgent roster move to reinforce their defensive line. The team officially announced the signing of former Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Fabien Lovett Sr. to the practice squad. This decision comes just days before the Patriots begin their preparation week for a massive showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals, a team known for its powerful interior offensive attack. Lovett is a familiar name to scouts after his college career at Mississippi State and Florida State before joining the Chiefs in 2024. He brings an impressive frame, excellent run-stopping ability, and standout hand strength. Although he has not yet had many opportunities to play in the NFL, Patriots evaluators believe Lovett can become a perfect fit in head coach Mike Vrabel’s defensive system if properly developed. The addition of Lovett is viewed as a necessary step as the Patriots face a serious depth shortage on the interior defensive line, with Williams out and several other key players still not fully healthy. Adding depth at defensive tackle has been deemed absolutely critical ahead of facing the Bengals, who consistently attack the middle of the defense. Foxborough is therefore hopeful that Lovett will integrate quickly and become a reliable rotational option. In his first media availability, Fabien Lovett Sr. showed determination and gratitude for the opportunity the Patriots have given him: “I’m going to give everything I have every single day — every practice, every snap. I want to prove to Coach Vrabel that I deserve a spot in the Patriots ranks. This is an opportunity and I’m not going to waste it.” The straightforward statement left a strong impression on reporters at Gillette. Despite currently being only a practice-squad signing, Lovett is projected to have a fast track to the active roster if he performs well. The current situation is forcing the Patriots to stay flexible and ready to give chances to players with the right attitude. With clear determination and motivation, Lovett is expected to become a surprise contributor that helps the New England defense stand firm against the major challenge named the Cincinnati Bengals.