Allen Bailey, a former NFL defensive lineman who spent eight seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, has died at the age of 37. Bailey was found deceased in his home on Tuesday, according to reports from Welt and n-tv.de. While the family believes the death resulted from natural causes, no official cause of death has been released.
A Career Defined by Ten NFL Seasons
Bailey played college football in Miami before entering the professional ranks. The Kansas City Chiefs selected him in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft. He remained a mainstay of the Chiefs’ defensive front for eight years, appearing in 133 regular-season games throughout his decade-long career. Following his tenure in Kansas City, Bailey played for the Atlanta Falcons for two seasons before his release in 2021. Over his professional career, he recorded 22 sacks and 248 tackles.
Reflections from Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid
The news of Bailey’s death prompted immediate tributes from those who worked alongside him in Kansas City. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who shared the field with Bailey during his rookie season in 2017 and throughout 2018, described the veteran as a foundational teammate. “I tell this story every year: He was the first person I saw when I walked into the locker room after the draft,” Mahomes said, as reported by n-tv.de. “I see Allen Bailey and think to myself, ‘This isn’t the Big 12 anymore.’ It was surreal to see him.”
Mahomes characterized Bailey as a player who prioritized the collective success of the team over individual recognition. “He’s not necessarily a superstar, but someone who makes sure everything runs,” Mahomes noted. “We are praying for his family. We have spoken as teammates and know that we will do everything we can to support his loved ones.”
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, who coached Bailey from 2013 through 2018, expressed his condolences on Wednesday. “Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, and we include them in our prayers,” Reid said in comments relayed by n-tv.de. “He was obviously way too young. He was one of my favorite players. A really great guy. I am just incredibly sorry that this happened to him.”
Status of the Investigation
As of Wednesday, the circumstances surrounding Bailey’s death remain under review. While TMZ Sports reported that the family believes the death was due to natural causes, official confirmation from law enforcement or medical examiners has not been provided. The sudden nature of the passing has left former teammates and the organization awaiting further updates as the family handles arrangements.
More on Allen Bailey
As the Kansas City Chiefs get prepped for Week 7, they're mourning the loss of former DE Allen Bailey. Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes both spoke about No. 97 on Wednesday, sharing a story about a possum and a welcome-to-the-NFL moment Mahomes retells every year. 🏈 pic.twitter.com/SsQ5O58aqb
After former NFL defensive end Allen Bailey was found dead Oct. 20, his brother confirmed, the Kansas City Chiefs alum was remembered by his family and teammates, including Patrick Mahomes. https://t.co/dD3BV5x7El pic.twitter.com/4DCKCZhYyO
Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes on Allen Bailey says he tells this story every year: "He was the first person I saw in the (Kansas City) locker room, and I said, 'This isn't the Big 12 anymore.' It's terrible news to hear… We're praying for him and his family. All of his former…”
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