New Chiefs Tight End Anthony Becht Spoke Of Broadcasting Career Just Six Days Ago

In an interesting twist on the career path of Anthony Becht, the latest free agent signing of the Kansas City Chiefs, the tight end was apparently ready to start his broadcasting career with SportsNet New York. That’s not a surprising development given the fact that the well-traveled tight end was out of football for all of last season after being cut last September by the Arizona Cardinals. But it is surprising how quickly he was in and out of the broadcasting business. Apparently, Scott Pioli was able to convince him for one last go-around.

A recent interview with the New York Post featured Becht as commentator looking forward to the Jets upcoming season. Becht spent his first several seasons in the league with the Jets, and was their first round draft choice in 2000. In the last question, Becht responded about his new career choice:

Coming back to New York (he lives in Tampa), I think it’s great. I’ve kept close ties with a lot of people in the Jets organization. I really like the market and the team, and I’m doing as much as I can. I am not a guy that had 20 Pro Bowl seasons. So, it’s just like football. You have to work your way up, work through the loops and go that way.

Apparently he’s willing to put that career ladder on hold as he tries to work his way up in the Chiefs organization with a strong showing among current tight ends with what’s left of training camp. The Chiefs apparently saw something in Becht’s blocking skills to bring him in, and now it’s up to him to seize that opportunity.

Anthony Becht 'Instantly Best Blocking Tight End' On Kansas City Chiefs Roster

For fans scratching their heads wondering why Scott Pioli would add another tight end on a roster that already features Tony Moeaki and Leonard Pope among other young hopefuls trying to make the roster, Adam Caplan has your answer. The Sirius/XM NFL reporter sent a message on Twitter earlier with the simple refrain: “Biggest reason why the Chiefs signed Becht: Instantly the best blocking TE on the roster.”

That could come as a shock to those used to the massive size of Pope, but Pioli’s not going to make a move without it being broken down and well-analyzed. The reality is that the addition of Becht and his size of 6-6, 270-280 lbs frame could enhance the running game even further — one that’s already bolstered by the versatility of a dedicated Dexter McCluster and a Pro Bowl fullback in Le’Ron McClain.

Perhaps Pope and Becht are both open to roster spots and can give the Chiefs the edge in big packages around the goal line or other running situations. Then again, if Becht isn’t going to play special teams and has sat out the last season, he’s got some work to do to make the team. But if his blocking ability is really that strong, the Chiefs orientation around their running game might make this addition a permanent one.

Anthony Becht Reportedly Signs With Kansas City Chiefs With One-Year Deal