Chiefs Seventh-Round Pick Miss Rookie Season to Care for Mother Battling Cancer

Kansas City, MO – The Chiefs’ 2025 rookie class was built on upside, but sometimes life rewrites the playbook. One young offensive lineman will not be suiting up this fall, choosing family over football.

Kansas City waived him on August 24 after preseason roster cuts, and though evaluators saw practice squad potential, his future took an unexpected turn. His absence isn’t about performance — it’s about priorities.

At just 23 years old, the rookie revealed he will step away from football this year to care for his mother, who is battling cancer. It’s a decision that resonates beyond Arrowhead.

C.J. Hanson, a seventh-round pick out of Holy Cross with elite athletic testing (9.84 RAS), was considered a developmental project on the interior line. Yet today, his story shifted into something far deeper.

"Football has always been my dream, but family is my life. Right now, my mom needs me more than the Chiefs do — and I’m grateful this organization understands and gives me the chance to be there for her," Hanson said.

Though Hanson didn’t make the 53-man roster, Kansas City valued his size, versatility, and upside from his FCS career. Coaches noted his raw power and movement skills made him a candidate for long-term development.

Head coach Andy Reid and GM Brett Veach reportedly offered full support, making clear that Chiefs Kingdom is rooted in family first. Teammates praised his maturity and courage in a year that will be defined off the field.

Hanson’s rookie season won’t feature pass blocks or pancakes. Instead, it’s about sacrifice and love — qualities that endure far beyond football. When he returns, fans will know they’re cheering for more than just a lineman.