In a move that surprised many (including me), Carl Peterson has resigned/been forced out as Chiefs president/GM/CEO/draft botcher/executive condescender/lightning rod.
His tenure spanned 20 years, meaning he was inaugurated about the same time as the first President Bush. Let that sink in.
These 20 years can be neatly divided into two distinct decades. The first included building a successful franchise that captivated a city, with almost-annual playoff appearances that seemed to always end in disappointment. The last ten years were punctuated by decline and desperation, culminating in the embarrassment of the 2008 season.
The draft was always a sore spot for Chiefs fans, even when the team was good. Check this list and I promise you will be in awe of the sheer number of busts this franchise has seen.
He famously made shrewd moves for Marcus Allen and Joe Montana, but also signed Bam "Bong" Morris and Chester McGlockton. He let go of Joe Horn, Donnie Edwards, and (most painfully) future MVP Rich Gannon.
All the while, he considered himself beyond reproach. His level of arrogance was stunning. I'm convinced his attitude--moreso than any on-the-field failures--was the reason so many in Kansas City despised him.
I do not wish any ill will upon Peterson. I do not hate him. He is merely a guest who has lingered at this city's NFL party about 10 years too long.
Sorry, Carl. You don't have to go home, but you can't stay here.
2 comments:
Like you, I bear no ill will towards Carl. I'm sure he'll land on his feet again with another franchise (and good luck to them). I got to thinking about him during all the hubub on sports talk yesterday and realized that people have been so focused on their hatred that they forget that he actually did some very good things for this team and this city. If not for Carl (and Marty) we wouldn't have had as you mentioned Marcus Allen, Joe Montana, Derrick Thomas & many others. Thanks for all you've done Carl. Buh-bye.
I hear you SBo'C, I was looking around my house today and noticed all the Chiefs stuff I have. Sure it was the players that made the games exciting and fun, but Peterson was in charge at the time so he gets the credit.
Post a Comment