Ed Budde Obituary

In the annals of American football, one name that stands tall is Edward Leon Budde, a revered guard who left an indelible mark on the sport. Born on November 2, 1940, and passing away on December 19, 2023, Budde’s legacy is one of dedication and excellence, notably during his entire career with the Kansas City Chiefs in both the American Football League (AFL) and the National Football League (NFL).

High School and College Years:

A product of Denby High School in Detroit, Michigan, and later an alumnus of Michigan State University, Budde’s journey to gridiron greatness began. In 1963, he was selected as the number one draft pick by the Kansas City Chiefs in the American Football League, setting the stage for a remarkable career.

Kansas City Chiefs Dynasty:

Budde’s impact on the Kansas City Chiefs was nothing short of monumental. Playing as the left offensive guard, he spent an impressive 14 years with the team, a feat unmatched except by punter Jerrel Wilson. From 1963 to 1971, Budde displayed exceptional consistency, never missing a single start in all 14 games during each season.

Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 260 pounds, Budde’s distinctive stance, with his left hand down, became a trademark. His explosive blocks paved the way for running backs and shielded Chiefs quarterback Len Dawson from defenders. Budde played a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ triumphs, contributing to two American Football League Championships (1966 and 1969) and a historic victory in Super Bowl IV against the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings.

Accolades and Recognition:

Budde’s prowess on the field earned him numerous accolades, including five selections to the American Football League All-Star team and participation in six AFL All-Star games. In 1969, he was chosen for the Sporting News AFL All-League team. Budde made history as the first offensive lineman to be named an Offensive Player of the Week by the Associated Press.

Retirement and Legacy:

Edward Budde bid farewell to the football field after the 1976 season, leaving behind a legacy that earned him a well-deserved spot on the All-Time All-AFL Team First-team. Beyond his own accomplishments, Budde’s influence extended to the next generation of athletes, including his son Brad Budde. A standout at the University of Southern California and an NFL player for the Chiefs, Brad and Edward Budde achieved a unique distinction as the only father-son duo to be first-round draft picks for the same NFL team.