Former Buffalo Bills punter Matt Araiza is back in action, signing a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs. Araiza’s return to the NFL comes after a two-year break following allegations of sexual assault in 2021, which led to his release from the Bills.
Initially drafted by the Bills in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Araiza faced a turbulent start to his professional career when details emerged about the alleged incident involving San Diego State football players. Despite being dropped from the lawsuit in December of last year, Araiza struggled to secure another NFL opportunity, with a workout for the New York Jets in May of 2023 not resulting in a contract offer.
However, Araiza’s perseverance has paid off with his signing by the Kansas City Chiefs. In a statement released through his agency JL Sports, Araiza expressed his gratitude for the chance to continue his NFL journey and thanked his family and friends for their unwavering support.
While the Chiefs already boast one of the league’s top punters in Tommy Townsend, who has been with the team since 2020, Townsend’s impending free agency prompted Kansas City to secure Araiza’s services. Known for his powerful leg, Araiza’s ability to thrive in challenging conditions, like those in Orchard Park, where he was drafted by the Bills, makes him a valuable addition to the Chiefs’ roster.
For the Bills, the departure of Araiza in 2022 led to the signing of Sam Martin, who is entering his third season with the team. Despite the potential to upgrade at the position, the Bills may opt to stick with Martin, considering the financial implications of releasing him.
Araiza’s brief preseason stint with the Bills in 2022 left a lasting impression, particularly with his remarkable 82-yard punt against the Indianapolis Colts. With his nickname “The Punt God” stemming from his collegiate days at San Diego State, Araiza brings a combination of talent and potential to the Chiefs as they look to maintain their status as Super Bowl champions.
