Tony Gonzalez Sounds Off on Chiefs’ Stadium Move: “I Don’t Like That at All”
Tony Gonzalez isn’t mincing words when it comes to the Kansas City Chiefs’ decision to move across state lines. The Hall of Fame tight end, who spent the bulk of his illustrious career in Kansas City, made it clear he’s not on board with the franchise’s upcoming relocation from Missouri to Kansas.
Speaking recently, Gonzalez drew a pointed comparison to another iconic franchise that left its historic home.
“I don’t like that at all,” Gonzalez said. “I see what happens with the 49ers, how they moved out of Candlestick and out of San Francisco, and it’s stupid. I don’t even know why you call them San Francisco 49ers anymore.”
Gonzalez’s frustration centers around more than just geography. For him, it’s about the atmosphere - the energy that comes with being in the heart of the city. He believes the move risks losing the unique vibe that made Arrowhead Stadium such a special place.
“All the vibe was great downtown,” he added. “If they do anything to move that stadium, they should just put it more towards downtown, is what I would say.
Put it in the heat. I want some action.
I don’t want to be in the middle of nowhere.”
And Gonzalez would know. The 14-time Pro Bowler spent 12 seasons in Kansas City, becoming one of the most reliable and dynamic tight ends the game has ever seen. He rarely missed a snap, let alone a game, and left the franchise holding numerous receiving records - many of which still stand today.
After the 2008 season, Gonzalez moved on to Atlanta, where he played five more years and helped lead the Falcons to three playoff appearances. But for many fans, he’ll always be synonymous with the red and gold of the Chiefs - and with Arrowhead Stadium.
Chiefs Set to Leave Arrowhead for $3 Billion Domed Stadium in Kansas
The Chiefs’ move is now official. The franchise announced plans to relocate from Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, to a new $3 billion domed stadium in Kansas City, Kansas. The announcement was made in coordination with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, following a meeting with the Kansas Legislative Coordinating Council.
The move marks the end of a historic era. Arrowhead has been the Chiefs’ home since 1972, making it the oldest stadium in the AFC. Over the decades, it’s become one of the most iconic venues in the NFL - known for its deafening crowd noise, tailgating culture, and deep football roots.
While the team’s lease at Arrowhead runs through the 2030 season, the wheels are already in motion for the transition. And while the new stadium promises modern amenities and a climate-controlled environment, the emotional weight of leaving Arrowhead isn’t lost on the fanbase - or on the legends who helped build the franchise’s identity.
What’s Next for the Chiefs?
As the franchise looks toward a new home, the current team is still grinding through the final weeks of the regular season. In Week 17, the Chiefs will take on the Denver Broncos - a rivalry game that’s always intense, regardless of standings.
But this time, there’s a different tone. The Chiefs have already been eliminated from playoff contention, so this one’s about pride, development, and setting the tone for the offseason. Head coach Andy Reid will no doubt use the opportunity to evaluate younger players and reinforce the culture that’s made Kansas City a perennial contender in recent years.
Still, for fans and former players like Gonzalez, the focus isn’t just on this week’s matchup. It’s on the bigger picture - on what it means to say goodbye to Arrowhead, and what the future holds for a franchise that’s about to cross a border, both literally and symbolically.
As the Chiefs prepare to turn the page, one thing’s for sure: the echoes of Arrowhead’s past - the roars, the records, the red-sea Sundays - won’t be forgotten anytime soon.