Former Coyote Joey Lombard has signed with the Kansas City Chiefs. The FCS All-American offensive lineman aims to follow the path of his former teammate Jack Cochrane by making the Chiefs roster as an undrafted rookie free agent.
VERMILLION, S.D. (Dakota News Now) — Joey Lombard, a four-year starter on the University of South Dakota offensive line, announced on Thursday via social media that he has signed with the two-time defending NFL champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.
This announcement came after Lombard participated in Day 1 of the Chiefs’ mandatory minicamp, having been invited back following his rookie minicamp workouts shortly after the NFL Draft in May.
During his USD career, Lombard started 48 games, mostly at center, with some experience at left guard early on. Hailing from Anoka, Minnesota, he earned Missouri Valley Football Conference All-Conference honors in both 2023 and 2024, and was named an All-American in his senior year.
Head coach Travis Johansen praised Lombard, saying, “Joey has the talent, work ethic, and professionalism needed to make a significant impact in the NFL. Kansas City is gaining another Yote who will enhance their team every day. We’re proud of what Joey has accomplished and excited for what lies ahead.”
Lombard received Second Team All-America honors from the AP and Third Team recognition from STATS Perform after the 2024 season. As captain of the offensive line, he helped his team rank second nationally in tackles for loss allowed, sixth in rushing offense, and ninth in total offense per game in the FCS.
He now joins former Coyote Jack Cochrane on the Chiefs’ roster, as well as former teammate JJ Galbreath, who also signed as an undrafted free agent heading into the 2025 season.
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