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đŸ”„ NFL BOMBSHELL: Patrick Mahomes Blasts Chiefs Rookie for Walking Out of Training Camp After Learning Later Pick Earns Bigger Contract

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Patrick Mahomes Blasts Chiefs Rookie for Walking Out of Training Camp After Learning Later Pick Earns Bigger Contract

Kansas City, MO – August 11, 2025 — A surprising twist hit the Kansas City Chiefs’ training camp when a standout rookie abruptly walked off the practice field after discovering that a later draft pick is earning a larger contract.

The decision stunned both teammates and coaches, especially given the rookie’s impressive showing in the team’s preseason win over the Arizona Cardinals, where he led the defense in tackles and drew praise from the coaching staff.

That rookie is linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, a fifth-round selection out of Oregon, who signed a four-year, $4.61 million deal with $413,652 guaranteed. His frustration reportedly boiled over after learning seventh-round running back Brashard Smith has a larger total contract value.

“Walking out of practice just because of a contract issue? In Kansas City, we stay on the field, sweat, and prove we belong. We’ve turned down bigger contracts just to keep wearing red and gold — if you walk away, you’re only letting someone else take your spot,” Mahomes told reporters.

Bassa’s departure came less than 48 hours after his six-tackle performance against the Cardinals, a game that saw him flash the athleticism and coverage skills head coach Andy Reid had praised just days earlier. His walkout has left many puzzled.

Brashard Smith, the player at the center of the contract comparison, signed a four-year, $5.33 million deal with $233,476 guaranteed. While Smith has shown promise as a pass-catching back, he did not record any notable stats against Arizona.

For Kansas City, the episode is an unwelcome distraction as camp enters a critical stretch. Coaches and veterans alike are working to keep focus on preparation, especially with roster cuts looming in the weeks ahead.

Whether Bassa returns to the field or this marks a turning point in his rookie season remains to be seen. For now, the Chiefs’ message is clear — in this locker room, commitment comes before contract disputes.