Chiefs “Ramping Up” Talks With S Eric Berry Regarding Long-Term Extension

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media is reporting that the Chiefs and S Eric Berry are “ramping up” talks regarding a long-term extension.

Chiefs GM John Dorsey told reporters a few weeks ago that he’s had “various discussions” with Berry’s representatives and plans to continue to discussing an extension with them, per Terez A. Paylor.

This came just a few days after HC Andy Reid made it clear that he wants Berry back in 2016.

“I think he wants to be here. We want him to be here. The agents and our people need to get with him, they’ll deal with all that, work through all that. But I like Eric Berry. I can tell you, I love Eric Berry,” Reid said, via Dave Skretta of the Associated Press.

Berry has also said that he would prefer to return to Kansas City next year.

“Obviously,” Berry said, when asked if he wants to return to the Chiefs. “This is family. At the same time, we’ll sit down and talk about it when we talk about it. But right now I’m just thankful for my teammates, my coaches and everybody that has something to do with me being back on the field this year. This is something special.”

Berry, 27, worked his way back from Hodgkin’s lymphoma and managed to produce an impressive 2015 season. He’s now in position to be one of the best available players in the free agent market, which should net him an impressive contract.

In 2015, Berry appeared in all 16 games and recorded 61 tackles, two interceptions, and 10 pass defenses for the Chiefs. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 4 safety out of 88 qualifying players.

We have listed as the No. 5 player in our Top 2016 Free Agents list.