2016 NFL Free Agency Profile: Eric Berry

Sep 14, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry (29) before the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

A name that has fallen off the radar for over a year is Eric Berry as the safety was forced to step away from football to do battle with lymphoma.  However, recent news has brought a brightness to the summer holidays.

So this means barring any setbacks, there is a good chance Berry returns to the field soon for the Kansas City Chiefs.  Just in time too, because he is set to enter 2016 NFL free agency.

• Age:  26
• 292 tackles
• 8 interceptions
• 3 forced fumbles
• 3 touchdowns
• 3x Pro Bowler

The unique part of this situation is that Berry was unquestionably one of the best safeties in the league and a leader on the Chiefs defense, but in his absence the unit barely seemed to lose a step.  They finished 2014 ranked 7th overall and 2nd in points allowed, notching 46 sacks.  So as thrilled as they might be to get him back, the team has had salary cap issues the past few years.  Would they be willing to let him walk next offseason given the preview they got of life without him?

It’s a fair question.  If Berry returns and has a great season, he’ll likely feel justified in demanding top safety money given his track record and proof the cancer was in no way debilitating.  That means he could demand an even higher number than his $8.3 million he makes for this season.  Considering the team also must set aside a huge deal for star pass rusher Justin Houston, this is a road block.

Likeliest Outcome:  Hits the open market