Former San Diego State football player Matt Araiza has found a new home in the NFL, signing with the Kansas City Chiefs, according to an announcement from his agency on X, formerly Twitter.
This marks Araiza’s return to professional football after a tumultuous period that saw him released by the Buffalo Bills amid legal issues. In October 2021, Araiza faced allegations stemming from a lawsuit related to an incident at an off-campus party. However, his accuser, known as Jane Doe, has since dropped Araiza from the lawsuit, and Araiza has reciprocated by withdrawing his counter defamation suit against her as part of a settlement agreement.
Expressing his appreciation for the opportunity with the Chiefs, Araiza said, “I am proud and honored to sign a contract with the Chiefs… I want to thank my family and my many friends who have stood by me throughout.”
Araiza’s legal team reached a settlement with Doe in December of last year. Reflecting on the impact of the lawsuit on his life, Araiza acknowledged the lasting repercussions on his reputation and the distress it caused his family. Despite being cleared of criminal charges by the San Diego County District Attorney’s office, Araiza faced challenges in clearing his name.
With Araiza joining the Chiefs, it is likely that the team will not bring back All-Pro punter Tommy Townsend, who has been a key player for the organization.
Araiza, who excelled as a punter during his time at SDSU, was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft but was subsequently released before the start of the season. Araiza’s agency, JL Sports, expressed gratitude to the Chiefs for giving Araiza a fresh start and acknowledged the hardships he has endured over the past 18 months.
The lawsuit against Araiza’s former SDSU teammates mentioned in the complaint is still ongoing, with no trial date set.
