Chiefs’ Creed Humphrey is making a snapping change this year. Here’s what’s different
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes could see more accurate snaps flying his direction in 2024.
That’s because Pro Bowl center Creed Humphrey has made a change in recent months, switching over to a new technique for snapping the football.
“Coaches asked me to see if I could work on that this offseason, to see how it felt. And it feels natural and comfortable,” Humphrey said. “So I’m doing that now.”
The new method is called a “dead-ball snap,” and it’s actually more simple than it sounds.
Previously, Humphrey would grab the laces of the football during shotgun snaps and attempt to spiral it back to Mahomes. On many occasions last year, those tosses ended up wide or short of their intended target.
The dead-ball snap is simpler. The center essentially grabs the top of the ball like a bear claw before swinging his arm back like a pendulum to direct it back to the QB.
Many centers have found that dead-ball snaps lead to better accuracy, even if they might not get back with the same velocity.
Humphrey said one focus this offseason was getting lots of repetitions to ensure he could get to every blocking angle needed with the new tactic.
“I’m not really sure how different it is. That’s something you probably have to ask Pat about, the delivery to him,” Humphrey said. “But for me, it feels good, and everything’s been smooth. So it’s been great.”
Humphrey has had an eventful few days, as he signed a lucrative contract extension with the Chiefs last week. His new pact is four years for $72 million, with $50 million guaranteed.
A second-round pick by the Chiefs in 2021, Humphrey said Monday he appreciated being with an organization where “everything is top-notch.”
“I’m in the perfect situation for me,” Humphrey said. “I’m playing in a place that I get to call home, and it’s been awesome to call it home the past four years. I’ve really enjoyed it. So getting this opportunity is awesome.”
