The Kansas City Chiefs have made a significant move by signing punter Matt Araiza, who was previously dismissed from a lawsuit alleging the rape of a 17-year-old girl in 2021. This decision comes as a surprise to many, but it seems that the Chiefs are willing to give Araiza a second chance.
Agent Joe Linta expressed his gratitude to the Chiefs organization for providing Araiza with this opportunity. It is clear that the Chiefs’ management, including General Manager Brett Veach and Coach Andy Reid, have faith in Araiza’s abilities and believe that he deserves another shot at his NFL career.
Tommy Townsend, the Chiefs’ punter for the past four seasons, is set to become an unrestricted free agent next month. This signing could potentially have implications for Townsend’s future with the team. Despite being a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection in 2022, Townsend’s position on the team may now be in jeopardy.
The lawsuit filed against Araiza by a 17-year-old girl, referred to as Jane Doe, has taken several twists and turns. In a surprising development, Doe dropped Araiza from the lawsuit in December 2022. In turn, Araiza agreed to dismiss a defamation suit against Doe that he had filed in July 2023. These legal maneuvers have paved the way for Araiza to move forward with his football career.
Araiza himself expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to join the Chiefs. In a statement released through his agent, he said, “I am proud and honored to sign a contract with the @Chiefs. I am thrilled to be able to continue my NFL career. I want to thank my family, who have been my rock, and my many friends who have been unwavering in their support. I am excited to begin the next phase of my career with the Super Bowl Champs!”
At just 23 years old, Araiza is a young talent with potential. He played college football at San Diego State and was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL draft. However, he has yet to make his NFL debut as he was released by the Bills in the summer of 2022 following his involvement in the rape lawsuit.
It is worth noting that the San Diego District Attorney’s office announced in December 2022 that no criminal charges would be filed in the case. This development likely played a role in the Chiefs’ decision to sign Araiza, as it suggests that there may not be substantial evidence against him.
Before joining the Chiefs, Araiza had a workout with the New York Jets last May, indicating that there was interest in his talents from other teams. However, it is the Chiefs who have ultimately given him the opportunity to prove himself on the field.
This signing raises questions about the future of Tommy Townsend with the Chiefs. While Townsend has been a reliable punter for the team, the addition of Araiza could potentially lead to a competition for the starting position. The Chiefs’ coaching staff will undoubtedly evaluate both punters closely during training camp and preseason games to determine who will be their punter moving forward.
In conclusion, the Kansas City Chiefs have taken a calculated risk by signing Matt Araiza, who was previously involved in a rape lawsuit. With this move, the Chiefs are giving Araiza a chance to revive his NFL career and contribute to their success on the field. Only time will tell if this decision will pay off for both Araiza and the Chiefs organization.