KANSAS CITY — In a moment that marks the end of an era, longtime ESPN and Kansas City Chiefs beat reporter Frank Dawson officially announced his retirement after more than four decades covering the team and the NFL. A revered figure in sports journalism, Dawson is credited with chronicling the rise of some of football’s greatest legends, including Derrick Thomas, Priest Holmes, Patrick Mahomes, and Travis Kelce.
Dawson, now 72, began covering the Chiefs in 1983, back when the team was still clawing for relevance in a changing NFL landscape. Over the decades, his steady voice, insightful reporting, and unmatched access to the organization made him a staple not just in Kansas City sports, but in national football discourse.
“I’ve had the privilege of telling the story of this team through its highs and lows, through heartbreaks and championships,” Dawson said during an emotional press conference hosted at Arrowhead Stadium. “But more than the games, it’s the people — the players, coaches, fans — who made this journey unforgettable.”
Known for his sharp eye and heart-centered storytelling, Dawson was often the first to break pivotal Chiefs news. His exclusive 2017 feature on then-rookie Patrick Mahomes introduced the nation to the young quarterback’s immense potential. Years later, Mahomes himself credits Dawson for encouraging him to stay grounded despite the early hype.
“Frank always told me, ‘Be great, but never forget where you came from,’” Mahomes recalled. “He’s not just a reporter. He’s family.”
Travis Kelce, too, shared his admiration, noting Dawson’s unmatched dedication. “Frank was there after my first touchdown, and he’s still here after my last Super Bowl win,” Kelce said. “He’s part of the Chiefs story.”
Dawson’s retirement comes at a time when journalism, especially in sports, is evolving rapidly. Yet his style — focused on integrity, human connection, and deep football knowledge — remains timeless. ESPN announced they will honor Dawson with a special tribute segment during the Hall of Fame Game broadcast this August, and the Kansas City Chiefs plan to induct him into their Ring of Honor in a rare gesture reserved typically for players and coaches.
Chiefs owner Clark Hunt released a statement praising Dawson’s impact on the franchise. “Frank Dawson is one of the finest storytellers our sport has ever known. His legacy will live on in every word he wrote and every moment he captured.”
As Dawson signs off for the last time, a generation of fans and football lovers pause to reflect on the indelible mark he leaves behind. He wasn’t just a reporter; he was the voice of the Chiefs’ soul. And though he’s stepping away from the press box, his words will echo through the pages of football history forever.