Bills BREAKING: Punter Matt Araiza Signs With Chiefs - 'To Hell And Back' After Rape Allegation
Former Buffalo Bills punter Matt Araiza has been to "hell and back" but is now landing back on his feet in the NFL with a rival of the team that drafted him.
The Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs are signing Araiza to a deal.
A sixth-round pick by the Bills in 2022, Araiza was released on Aug. 27, 2022 after being accused of rape from his time at San Diego State, but the lawsuit was dropped between him and his accuser on Dec. 12, 2023.
Araiza's agency wrote that he's "been to hell and back" in the official announcement on his signing.
"We are proud to announce that our client @matt_araiza has signed with the @Chiefs . We are grateful to Brett Veach, coach Reid and the @Chiefs organization for giving Matt this opportunity. Matt has been to hell and back in the last 18 months. He has handled himself with grace."
Araiza included a statement in the announcement, writing, “I am proud and honored to sign a contract with the Chiefs. I am thrilled to be able to continue my NFL career. I want to thank my family, who have been my rock and my many friends who have been unwavering in their support."
Araiza spoke publicly for the first time since his release in May 2023 on Tomi Lahren's show and discussed how the Bills handled the process.
"It wasn't for talent," Araiza said. " ... I was cut because of these allegations. I hold nothing against the Buffalo Bills. I wish things were handled differently, but they did treat me with respect which I appreciate."
After a long legal battle, Araiza is now back in the NFL and will look to make Kansas City's 53-man roster.
