It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Ed Budde, a former offensive lineman for the Kansas City Chiefs. Budde, who was 83 years old, was a mainstay on the Chiefs’ offensive line from 1963 to 1974. During his time with the team, he was an integral part of the Chiefs’ success, helping them to three consecutive AFL championships from 1966 to 1969.
Budde was born in St. Louis, Missouri and attended Michigan State University, where he was an All-American in 1962. He was drafted by the Chiefs in the first round of the 1963 AFL draft and went on to become one of the most decorated players in franchise history. He was selected to eight consecutive Pro Bowls from 1964 to 1971 and was named All-AFL six times. He was also a member of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl IV championship team in 1970.
After his retirement from football in 1974, Budde remained a fixture in the Kansas City community. He served as a color commentator for Chiefs games and was inducted into the Chiefs Hall of Fame in 1988. His legacy will live on in Kansas City and beyond.
The entire Chiefs organization is mourning Budde’s passing and has released a statement expressing their condolences. “Ed Budde was an integral part of the Chiefs family for more than 50 years,” said Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. “He was a great player, a great leader and a great friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Budde will be remembered as one of the greatest players in Chiefs history and his contributions to the team will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
