Tyler Thigpen: Difference between revisions

TD–INT:	21–18
Passing yards:	3,192
QB Rating:	72.5

Tyler Thigpen
	Tyler Thigpen November 2011
Buffalo Bills
Personal information
Born:	April 14, 1984 (age 40); Winnsboro, South Carolina
Career information
College:	Coastal Carolina
NFL draft:	2007 / round: 7 / pick: 217
Career history
	Minnesota Vikings (2007); Kansas City Chiefs (2007–2009); Miami Dolphins (2009–2010); Buffalo Bills (2011–Present); Offseason and/or practice squad member only
	* Offseason and/or practice squad member only
Roster status:	Active
Career highlights and awards
	Big South Player of the Year (2006);
Career NFL statistics as of Week 17, 2011
TD–INT:
TD–INT:	21–18
Passing yards:	3,192
QB Rating:	72.5

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Revision as of 12:26, 2 November 2012

Tyler Beckham Thigpen^[1] (born April 14, 1984)^[2]^[3] is an American football quarterback for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). Thigpen was drafted out of Coastal Carolina University in the seventh round of the 2007 NFL Draft (217th overall) by the Minnesota Vikings.^[2]

Tyler Thigpen was the first quarterback to play for the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers football team.^[4] He led the Chanticleers program to a 30–8 record as starting quarterback.^[3]^[5] Thigpen holds the single-season and career passing records in every major statistical category at Coastal Carolina.^[6]

After seeing little playing time in 2007, Thigpen entered the 2008 Kansas City Chiefs season as the third-string quarterback, but emerged as the starting quarterback following season-ending injuries to Brodie Croyle and Damon Huard.^[7]^[8]^[9]^[10] The Chiefs subsequently altered their offensive gameplan to a spread offense to help Thigpen and the rest of the young Chiefs team to play to the best of their abilities.^[11]^[12] Thigpen recorded 22 touchdowns (18 passing, 3 rushing and 1 receiving) against 12 interceptions in 11 starts, though he led the Chiefs to a 1–10 record.^[12]^[13]^[14] During the 2009 season, the Chiefs acquired quarterback Matt Cassel and Thigpen was later traded to the Miami Dolphins.^[7]^[15]

Early years

Thigpen was born in Winnsboro, South Carolina, and he attended Fairfield Central High School in Winnsboro. He became an All-South Carolina selection as a senior running back.^[3] Thigpen also played wide receiver and punter in high school while earning the nickname "Dirty Pigpen".^[16]

College career

In February 2002, he elected to go to Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina,^[16] and majored in sports management.^[3]

Thigpen was the first quarterback in Coastal Carolina history, and wore the jersey number 16.^[4] The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers football program began in 2003.^[17] The team competes in the Big South Conference of the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision.

Thigpen and the rest of the Chanticleers' first recruiting class redshirted their freshman year (2002).^[18]^[19] In 2003 he started nine of ten games for the team and was third on the team's roster in rushing.^[19] After the Chanticleers' inaugural season in which the team finished with a 6–5 record, Thigpen led the team to a 10–1 record in 2004.^[4] In 2004, Thigpen started the opening 8 games before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury against Gardner-Webb.^[19] In 2005, Thigpen started all 11 games for the Chanticleers and earned the Big South Conference Offensive Player of the Week Award after rushing for 111 yards and 3 touchdowns and throwing for 157 yards in a victory over the Virginia Military Institute.^[19]^[20]

In 2006, Thigpen became the first Chanticleer to be chosen a consensus All-American.^[19]^[21] He registered a career-high 119 rushing yards at Gardner-Webb, including a 76-yard bootleg.^[19]^[22] He was named Big South Conference Player of the Year in 2006, when he completed 217-of-339 passes for 3,296 yards and 29 touchdowns, and carried 113 times for 656 yards and five touchdowns.^[17] Thigpen had a 30–8 record in four seasons (41 games and 39 starts).^[3]^[5] From 2003 to 2006, the Chanticleers had a 34–11 record in Thigpen's four seasons with the team,^[6] winning three Big South Conference championships.^[19]

He played alongside wide receiver Jerome Simpson and running back Mike Tolbert, both current NFL players, to help lead the young Chanticleers program to major victories against No. 1 James Madison in 2005,^[23] and No. 3 Furman in 2006.^[24] He led the Chanticleers to the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs and a Big South Conference championship.^[3] Thigpen holds the single-season and career passing records in every major statistical category at Coastal Carolina.^[6]^[25]

Statistics

Statistics as of the end of Thigpen's collegiate career (2006).^[4]

Year	Passing					Rushing
Year	Comp	Att	Yards	TDs	Int	Att	Yds	Avg	TD
2003	58	136	705	5	4	81	282	3.5	3
2004	78	158	1008	8	4	55	251	4.6	1
2005	133	246	1589	11	6	97	437	4.5	4
2006	217	339	3296	29	11	113	656	5.8	4
Totals	486	879	6,598	53	25	346	1626	4.7	13

Professional career

Pre-draft

Thigpen was not invited to the NFL Scouting Combine, but impressed NFL scouts at his pro day (held on March 8, 2007 on the campus of Coastal Carolina)^[26]^[27] and attended a workout at Clemson University to help raise his draft stock.^[19]

Height	Weight	40-yard dash	10-yard split	20-yard split	20 ss	3-cone	Vert	Broad	BP	Wonderlic
Pre-draft measureables^[26]
6–1⅞ **	223 **	4.78 **	1.65 **	2.78 **	4.40**	7.11**	39" **	8'09" **	X	21 **^[28]
**Coastal Carolina Pro Day, March 8, 2007—"X" Denotes "No Data" or "Did Not Participate"

Minnesota Vikings

Thigpen was selected 217th overall in the seventh round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings, becoming the first player in Coastal Carolina and Big South Conference history to be drafted in the NFL.^[3]^[29]

In the 2007 preseason, the Vikings hosted the St. Louis Rams, losing the game by a score of 13–10.^[8] Kansas City Chiefs scout and vice president of player personnel Bill Kuharich attended the game at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome.^[8] Thigpen played in the fourth quarter and in two possessions with the Vikings offense and completed 3-of-6 passes for 29 yards and picked up 18 yards on two scrambles.^[8] Kuharich filed a scouting a report following the game and told the rest of the Chiefs personnel to keep an eye on Thigpen if he were to be released after the preseason.^[8]

On May 18, 2007, Thigpen became the first of eight Vikings drafted in 2007 to sign a contract, agreeing to a four-year deal.^[3]^[17] Thigpen then competed with Brooks Bollinger, Tarvaris Jackson, and Drew Henson for a quarterback roster spot for the 2007 NFL season.^[17] The Vikings released Thigpen on September 1, 2007 along with several other players.^[30] The Vikings planned on signing Thigpen to their practice squad after passing waivers.^[31]

Kansas City Chiefs

2007 season

Several NFL teams had just two quarterbacks on their active roster heading into the season, including the Kansas City Chiefs, who had just recently released quarterbacks Casey Printers and Jeff Terrell.^[31] Concerning the roster move, Thigpen said, "I definitely felt this was coming...I wasn't surprised by it at all. It was still a great opportunity for me and the Vikings are still trying to keep me around."^[31] Thigpen was signed by the Chiefs the following day.^[3]^[32] Vikings head coach Brad Childress was reportedly upset when the Chiefs claimed Thigpen on waivers.^[8]

Thigpen was seen as showing a lot of potential following a strong preseason, whereas the Vikings were otherwise thin on talent at the quarterback position.^[31] Going into the 2007 NFL Draft, the Chiefs had Thigpen on their list of players that they had considering selecting in the later rounds, possibly with their seventh round selection (#231).^[8] As the draft played out, the Vikings chose Thigpen with the 217th choice.^[8]

With the Chiefs, Thigpen made his regular season debut replacing an injured Damon Huard versus the San Diego Chargers on December 12, 2007 in the game's final minutes.^[33] The Chiefs lost the game by a score of 24–10.^[33] Thigpen finished the game 2-of-6 for 41 yards and an interception.^[5]^[33] Later in the week at practice, he tore his medial collateral ligament (MCL) and was placed on injured reserve, ending his season.^[3]

2008 season

Prior to the 2008 season, Thigpen impressed Chiefs coaches enough to make the team think he could challenge for, and even win, the team's starting job against the incumbent Brodie Croyle.^[8]^[9] Thigpen was listed as the third-string quarterback on the Chiefs' depth chart at the beginning of the 2008 NFL season^[34] and made his season debut on September 14 against the Oakland Raiders, when Damon Huard left with "mild head trauma."^[35]^[36] Thigpen connected on 14-of-33 passes for 151 yards.^[36] Thigpen made his first NFL start on September 21, 2008 against the Atlanta Falcons.^[37] Thigpen struggled in the game, finishing 14-of-36 and passing for 128 yards with 3 interceptions in the 14–38 loss.^[38] The Chiefs trailed the Falcons 24–0 until Thigpen threw a touchdown pass to Dwayne Bowe just before halftime.^[38] Thigpen's third interception was returned for a touchdown with just over a minute remaining in the game.^[38] In the week prior to the game, Chiefs coach Herman Edwards insisted he would substitute Damon Huard into the game if Thigpen struggled.^[38] Edwards contemplated it during the game, but decided against it reasoning that Thigpen "put some points on the board."^[38] Following the game, asked if Thigpen would keep the starting job, Edwards said, "We'll see."^[38]

The following week, Huard was retained as the Chiefs' starting quarterback.^[39] However, Thigpen was again awarded the starting position after Croyle and Huard were placed on injured reserve, ending both of their seasons.^[10]^[12]

I think you adjust to what your players do well... You start out with a system but the system has to be adjusted to the players you have. Tyler feels very comfortable in what he's doing and I think he has given us the best opportunity to move the ball, get first downs and score. We’re rolling that way and we’re not turning back.

— Herman Edwards on implementing the spread offense.^[11]^[12]

Thigpen (second from right) lines up with the Chiefs in a pistol offense formation.

Thigpen (first from left) lines up as a wide receiver on offense as RB Larry Johnson lines up as the quarterback in a wildcat formation.

With the absence of running back Larry Johnson, the central part of the Chiefs' offense in years past, offensive coordinator Chan Gailey adjusted the offense to mimic the spread formation run by Thigpen at Coastal Carolina.^[11]^[12] Herman Edwards and Chan Gailey chose to implement the spread offense in order to prepare Thigpen for his second career start.^[11] By changing the gameplan, the Chiefs' offense began to find an identity after swapping their power running game for spread-type formations that best suited Thigpen.^[40]

By implementing the spread offense, the Chiefs made a huge gamble, as most in the NFL believe that a spread offense cannot work in professional football.^[11] Upon Larry Johnson's return, Chan Gailey and Edwards implemented the pistol offense to keep Thigpen in the spread while allowing Johnson to run downhill.^[11]^[12] However efficient the Chiefs became in running the spread offense, it became limited in the red zone, and the Chiefs struggled to finish out winning games.^[41]

In Thigpen's second career start, he passed for 280 yards with a 69.4% completion rate, with two touchdowns and no interceptions against the New York Jets, nearly leading the Chiefs to win over the heavily-favored Jets.^[42]

Thigpen scored his first receiving touchdown the following week versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.^[43] The 37-yard pass was from wide receiver Mark Bradley in a Wildcat formation.^[43] Thigpen also passed for 164 yards, a touchdown, no interceptions, and a 56.0% completion rate in the 30–27 loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.^[43] Thigpen became only the fifth player in Chiefs' history (and the first quarterback) to throw a touchdown pass and also score touchdowns by running and receiving.^[43]^[44] In the game, the Chiefs led 24–3 with a little more than two minutes remaining in the second quarter and seemed headed for just their second victory of the season.^[43] The Buccaneers rallied back and won the game in overtime with 24 unanswered points.^[43]

Thigpen avoids a sack from Shaun Phillips in a game against the San Diego Chargers.

Thigpen continued his impressive play the following week in the Chiefs' 20–19 loss to the San Diego Chargers, completing 27-of-41 passes for 266 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions.^[45] That gave him six touchdown passes and no turnovers in his previous three games.^[45]

After throwing three interceptions against the Falcons and appearing lucky to avoid throwing twice that many, Thigpen competed 124 straight passes without an interception through Week 10.^[12] Thigpen's no-interception streak ended at 161 in the closing seconds of a 30–20 loss to the New Orleans Saints, but Thigpen still managed to complete 19-of-38 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns to Dwayne Bowe.^[46] Thigpen became the first Chiefs quarterback to throw a touchdown pass in four consecutive games since Trent Green in 2005.^[46]

Prior to the Chiefs implementing the spread offense, Thigpen had been playing erratically with the Chiefs, and he suddenly became poised and effective running the new offense.^[47] His passer rating has climbed from 44.3 to 76.9 in the five games following his initial start at Atlanta.^[47] The Chiefs scored more than 10 points just twice in their first six games,^[47] but scored more offensive points than that in every game after, and twice had topped 25.^[47]

Thigpen had his first bad game in five outings against the Buffalo Bills on November 23 in the Chiefs' 54–31 loss.^[48] Thigpen's three turnovers (two interceptions and one lost fumble) led to 20 points by the Bills.^[48] Despite the turnovers, Thigpen also threw for 240 yards and three touchdowns.^[48]

Thigpen won his first game as the Chiefs' starter on November 30 against the Oakland Raiders, leading Kansas City to a 20–13 victory.^[49] Thigpen finished 15-of-22 for 162 yards and ran for 48 more.^[49] The victory ended a 7-game losing streak for the Chiefs.^[49] The following week, Thigpen kept the Chiefs competitive against the Denver Broncos, holding onto a 17–17 tie into the fourth quarter.^[50] After the Chiefs lost the lead to Denver, Thigpen drove the Chiefs all the way to the Broncos' 5-yard line, where his draw on fourth-and-goal was snuffed out by Broncos cornerback Dré Bly at the 1-yard line.^[50] The Broncos held their 24–17 lead and sent the Chiefs to a 2–11 record on the season.^[50]

Under pressure, Thigpen attempts to pass against the Dolphins' defense.

The following week against the Chargers, Thigpen was 19-of-38 for 171 yards with two touchdowns.^[51] Thigpen's first touchdown in the game (to Dwayne Bowe) gave the Chiefs a 14–0 lead over the Chargers, and his second touchdown (rushed in from 3 yards out) gave Kansas City a 21–3 lead in the third quarter.^[51] The Chiefs had a 21–10 lead with 1:19 remaining the game, but allowed two touchdowns and lost the Chargers 22–21.^[51]

Kansas City hosted the Miami Dolphins in the second-coldest game ever held at Arrowhead Stadium on December 21 with the game-time temperature at 10 °F.^[52] Thigpen threw a career best 320 yards with two touchdowns, but also threw three interceptions.^[52] Despite trailing 10–0 early in the game, Thigpen led the Chiefs to a 28–24 lead by halftime.^[52] The Chiefs failed to score a touchdown in the second half of the game and lost 38–31.^[52]

In the Chiefs' final game of the 2008 season, the Chiefs lost to the Cincinnati Bengals 16–6.^[53] The Chiefs' offense managed to get only two first downs in the first half of the game.^[53] Thigpen finished the game 19-of-26 for 191 yards and one touchdown.^[53]

Thigpen's final statistics for the 2008 season included 21 total touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and 2,994 all-purpose yards.^[2]^[7] He lost 10 of the 11 games he started at quarterback, six of which were lost by margins of seven points or less.

2009 season

Following a 2–14 season, Thigpen appeared to be the Chiefs' lone quarterback who would remain in their plans for 2009,^[13] especially after Damon Huard was released.^[54] Though Thigpen had earned the right to compete for the starting job, the Chiefs were expected to add a high-end quarterback through free agency or the 2009 NFL Draft.^[13]^[55] Despite impressing coaches in Brodie Croyle and Damon Huard's absence, Thigpen was not a lock for the starting job.^[14] Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez voiced his support for Thigpen to retain the position for the 2009 season.^[55] "It would be a disgrace if they don't (keep Thigpen as the starting quarterback)", Gonzalez told ESPN. "We've been playing well since he came in...I could see this being a playoff team next year. I could see us turning it around."^[55] Gonzalez was later traded to the Atlanta Falcons.^[56]

The Kansas City Star reported that Herman Edwards' coaching staff would meet after the 2008 season to debate Thigpen's prospects and whether to keep the spread offense the team adjusted to in a seemingly temporary move earlier this season.^[55] Edwards was fired as head coach but Chan Gailey, who implemented the spread offense, was retained as offensive coordinator under new head coach Todd Haley.^[57]^[58]^[59]^[60]

The Chiefs acquired quarterback Matt Cassel from the New England Patriots on February 28 for a second-round draft selection.^[34]^[61]^[62]

Head coach Todd Haley initially said that Thigpen would compete against Cassel for the starting quarterback position,^[15] but the first depth chart in training camp listed Thigpen as the third quarterback behind Brodie Croyle.^[7] Thigpen competed with Croyle for the backup quarterback position,^[7] and the Chiefs listened to trade offers in exchange for Thigpen throughout the offseason. The Jacksonville Jaguars offering a fifth-round draft pick but Kansas City ultimately declined.^[63]

Thigpen played in Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens, having one rushing attempt for two yards.^[64] He was listed as inactive for weeks two and three.

Miami Dolphins

Thigpen was traded to the Miami Dolphins for an undisclosed draft pick on September 29, 2009. The move came just two days after Dolphins starting quarterback Chad Pennington suffered a season-ending shoulder injury.^[65] After spending the first 15 games with the Dolphins as the inactive 3rd QB, Thigpen made his first appearance for the Dolphins in week 17 against the Steelers after both Chad Henne and Pat White left the game with injuries. He scored a touchdown, but later ended up throwing an interception in the end zone during a pivotal point in the game. Thigpen was given another chance to drive the Dolphins down the field with only 40 seconds on the clock, but he overthrew the receiver which resulted in his second interception of the game.

In the Dolphins initial off-season depth chart, Thigpen was listed as the number 2 quarterback, behind Chad Henne. He was listed ahead of former starter Chad Pennington and Pat White. After Chad Henne threw three interceptions in the Dolphins game against New England on October 4, 2010, Thigpen came in and completed 2 of 6 passes for 15 yards and an interception. He also scrambled once for 12 yards.

In week 9, Thigpen was passed over when Chad Pennington was named starter for the rest of the season. However, after both Pennington and Henne went down with injuries in a home game against the Tennessee Titans, Thigpen entered the game and threw for a touchdown pass in a Dolphins win against the Tennessee Titans. Thigpen started next game against the Chicago Bears, but was replaced by Henne the following week.

Buffalo Bills

On July 26, 2011, he agreed to terms with the Buffalo Bills on a three-year contract.^[66]

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^ "Kansas City 24, Baltimore 38". ESPN. Associated Press. September 13, 2009. Retrieved November 13, 2009.
^ "Dolphins get some insurance at QB". ESPN. Associated Press. September 29, 2009. Retrieved September 29, 2009.
^ Rosenthal, Gregg. "Tyler Thigpen headed to Buffalo". Pro Football Talk. Retrieved July 28, 2011.

External links

Buffalo Bills bio

Template:Persondata

[1] "Pro-Football-Reference Statistics". pro-football-reference.com. Retrieved December 18, 2011.

[Thigpen-2] "Tyler Thigpen". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved November 10, 2008.

[Tyler_Thigpen_biography-3] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ ^j "Tyler Thigpen biography". Kansas City Chiefs. Archived from the original on August 22, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2008.

[Tyler_Thigpen_-_Coastal_Carolina-4] "Tyler Thigpen – Coastal Carolina". Rivals.com. Retrieved November 27, 2008.

[Chiefs_have_own-5] "Chiefs have own QB problems as they play host to Oakland". NFL. Associated Press. September 15, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2008.

[Football_alum-6] Coastal Carolina University Athletics (September 18, 2008). "Football alum Thigpen to make first NFL start Sunday". Big South Conference. Retrieved November 26, 2008.

[Thigpen_and_Croyle_duel-7] "Thigpen and Croyle duel for Chiefs' backup QB spot". Fox Sports. Associated Press. August 14, 2009. Retrieved August 15, 2009.

[A_Different_Kind-8] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ Gretz, Bob (July 31, 2008). "A Different Kind of Homecoming". Kansas City Chiefs. Archived from the original on June 12, 2011. Retrieved November 26, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[unheralded-9] Schefter, Adam (May 6, 2008). "Chiefs, Panthers could turn to unheralded QBs". NFL. Retrieved November 14, 2008.

[Croyle_sprains-10] "Chiefs QB Croyle sprains right knee, done for the season". ESPN. Associated Press. October 19, 2008. Retrieved October 19, 2008.

[Spread_changes-11] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f Chadiha, Jeffri (November 21, 2008). "Spread changes options for Chiefs". ESPN. Retrieved November 26, 2008.

[Breaking_the_Mold-12] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g Rand, Jonathan (November 13, 2008). "Breaking the Mold". Kansas City Chiefs. Archived from the original on July 13, 2011. Retrieved November 14, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Worth_a_look-13] Rand, Jonathan (November 20, 2008). "Worth a look". Kansas City Chiefs. Archived from the original on June 12, 2011. Retrieved December 24, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Questions-14] Athan, Nick (December 28, 2008). "Questions abound as Chiefs fall to Bengals". Warpaint Illustrated (Scout.com). Retrieved December 28, 2008.

[Q&A_Haley_March_2,_2009-15] "Q&A with head coach Todd Haley". Kansas City Chiefs. March 2, 2009. Archived from the original on January 13, 2010. Retrieved March 2, 2009. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Coastal_inks-16] "Coastal inks 13 football recruits". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. February 6, 2002. Retrieved December 6, 2008.^{[dead link]}

[StarTrib-17] "Vikings sign quarterback Thigpen". Star Tribune. May 18, 2007. Retrieved May 19, 2007.

[Football_sets-18] "Football sets signing day press conference". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. February 4, 2002. Archived from the original on May 26, 2011. Retrieved December 23, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Tyler_Thigpen_Vikings_Biography-19] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h "Tyler Thigpen – Player Profile". Vikings.com. Archived from the original on March 30, 2008. Retrieved December 23, 2008.

[Football_defeats-20] "Football defeats VMI 38–14 to clinch share of Big South title". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. October 29, 2005. Archived from the original on February 19, 2006. Retrieved December 23, 2008.

[Chiefs_to_start_Tyler-21] "Chiefs to start Tyler Thigpen at QB". USA Today. Associated Press. September 17, 2008. Retrieved December 11, 2008.

[Resounding-22] "Football gets resounding 52–24 win at Gardner-Webb". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. November 11, 2006. Archived from the original on May 26, 2011. Retrieved December 23, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[23] "Football shocks No. 1 James Madison 31–27". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. September 10, 2005. Archived from the original on December 30, 2005. Retrieved December 6, 2008.

[24] "Football upsets No. 3 Furman 29–27". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. October 7, 2006. Archived from the original on May 26, 2011. Retrieved December 6, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[25] "Tyler Thigpen Biography". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. Archived from the original on May 1, 2007. Retrieved May 4, 2007.

[NFL_Draft_Scout-26] "Tyler Thigpen – Coastal Carolina, QB". NFL Draft Scout. Retrieved December 6, 2008.

[Football_to_host-27] "Football to host Pro Day March 8". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. March 7, 2007. Archived from the original on May 26, 2011. Retrieved December 23, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[2007_Wonderlic_Scores-28] "2007 Wonderlic Scores – Compiled from various sources". Potencial.com. December 25, 2007. Retrieved December 11, 2008.

[29] "Football's Thigpen to Be Featured on ESPN". Coastal Carolina University Athletics. Archived from the original on September 27, 2007. Retrieved May 19, 2007.

[Vikings_cut_down-30] "Vikings cut down". Vikings.com. September 1, 2007. Retrieved December 23, 2008. ^{[dead link]}

[VikingBuzz-31] Brown, Kevin (September 2, 2007). "VikingBuzz BLOG: 9/2". Scout.com (Viking Update). Retrieved December 23, 2007.

[Kansas_City_claims-32] "Kansas City claims CB Rashad Barksdale and QB Tyler Thigpen on waivers". Kansas City Chiefs. September 3, 2007. Archived from the original on June 12, 2011. Retrieved December 14, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Week_13_2007-33] "Week 13 2007 – San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs" (PDF). National Football League. December 12, 2007. Retrieved December 24, 2008.

[Patriots_trade_Cassel-34] "Patriots trade Cassel to Kansas City". MSNBC. Associated Press. February 28, 2009. Retrieved February 28, 2009.

[replaced_by_Thigpen-35] "Chiefs' Huard replaced by Thigpen after injury". ESPN. Associated Press. September 14, 2008. Retrieved September 14, 2008.

[Despite_firing-36] "Despite firing reports, Kiffin, McFadden lead Raiders over Chiefs". ESPN. Associated Press. September 14, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2008.

[Thigpen_to_start-37] "Chiefs QB Thigpen to start vs. Falcons". ESPN. Associated Press. September 17, 2008. Retrieved September 17, 2008.

[Turner_scores-38] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f "Turner scores three TDs as Falcons handle listless Chiefs". ESPN. Associated Press. September 21, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2008.

[Huard_will_start-39] "Huard will start at quarterback Sunday for Kansas City". NFL. Associated Press. September 22, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2008.

[The_next_step-40] Rand, Jonathan (November 11, 2008). "The next step". Kansas City Chiefs. Archived from the original on June 12, 2011. Retrieved December 24, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Leaking_everywhere-41] Rand, Jonathan (November 18, 2008). "Leaking everywhere". Kansas City Chiefs. Archived from the original on June 12, 2011. Retrieved December 24, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Favre_connects-42] "Favre connects with Coles in final minute to lift Jets to win". ESPN. Associated Press. October 26, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2008.

[Bucs_overcome-43] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f "Bucs overcome four turnovers, 21-point deficit en route to OT win". ESPN. Associated Press. November 2, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2008.

[Chiefs-Bucs_Postgame_Notes-44] "Chiefs-Bucs postgame notes". Kansas City Chiefs. November 2, 2008. Archived from the original on June 12, 2011. Retrieved December 24, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Chiefs'_2-point-45] "Chiefs' 2-point conversion falls short as Chargers avoid upset". ESPN. Associated Press. November 9, 2008. Retrieved December 4, 2008.

[Brees_throws-46] "Brees throws for 266 yards and TD to help Saints win in Kansas City". ESPN. Associated Press. November 16, 2008. Retrieved December 4, 2008.

[A_copycat_game-47] Rand, Jonathan (December 2, 2008). "A copycat game". Kansas City Chiefs. Archived from the original on June 12, 2011. Retrieved December 3, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Edwards_helps_Bills-48] "Edwards helps Bills score most against Chiefs in history". ESPN. Associated Press. November 23, 2008.

[Johnson's_2-yard-49] "Johnson's 2-yard plunge lifts Chiefs over woeful Raiders". ESPN. Associated Press. November 30, 2008. Retrieved December 1, 2008.

[Broncos_get-50] "Broncos get it together in 4th, put end to 3-game home skid". ESPN. Associated Press. December 7, 2008. Retrieved December 8, 2008.

[Chargers_keep-51] "Chargers keep slim playoff hopes alive with rally in Kansas City". NFL. Associated Press. December 14, 2008. Retrieved December 15, 2008.

[Pennington-led-52] "Pennington-led Dolphins beat cold, Chiefs to stay in playoff hunt". NFL. Associated Press. December 21, 2008. Retrieved December 21, 2008.

[Johnson_wants-53] "Chiefs' Johnson wants out after season-ending loss to Bengals". NFL. Associated Press. December 28, 2008. Retrieved December 28, 2008.

[Chiefs_announce_four-54] "Chiefs announce four transactions". Kansas City Chiefs. February 24, 2009. Archived from the original on July 13, 2011. Retrieved February 24, 2009. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Gonzalez-55] Leahy, Sean (December 10, 2008). "Gonzalez: It's a 'disgrace' if Chiefs don't stick with Thigpen in '09". USA Today. Retrieved January 10, 2009.

[Chiefs_trade_Gonzalez-56] "Chiefs trade Gonzalez for 2010 draft pick". ESPN. Associated Press. April 23, 2009. Retrieved April 23, 2009.

[Chiefs_fire_Edwards-57] "Chiefs fire Edwards; Shanahan next?". ESPN. January 23, 2009. Retrieved January 23, 2009.

[Edwards_relieved-58] "Herm Edwards relieved of duties as Chiefs head coach". Kansas City Chiefs. January 23, 2009. Archived from the original on July 13, 2011. Retrieved January 23, 2009. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[staff_moves-59] "Kansas City Chiefs announce coaching staff moves". Kansas City Chiefs. February 17, 2009. Archived from the original on June 12, 2011. Retrieved February 17, 2009. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Carthon-60] "Kansas City Chiefs add Maurice Carthon to coaching staff". Kansas City Chiefs. February 19, 2009. Archived from the original on July 13, 2011. Retrieved February 19, 2009. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[Chiefs_complete-61] King, Peter (February 28, 2009). "Chiefs complete trade for Cassel". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved February 28, 2009.

[Cassel,_Vrabel-62] "Chiefs acquire QB Matt Cassel, LB Mike Vrabel in trade with Patriots". Kansas City Chiefs. February 28, 2009. Archived from the original on July 13, 2011. Retrieved February 28, 2009. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

[A_case-63] "A case for Tyler Thigpen". NFL. August 27, 2009. Retrieved August 27, 2009.

[Kansas_City_24,_Baltimore_38-64] "Kansas City 24, Baltimore 38". ESPN. Associated Press. September 13, 2009. Retrieved November 13, 2009.

[Dolphins_get_some-65] "Dolphins get some insurance at QB". ESPN. Associated Press. September 29, 2009. Retrieved September 29, 2009.

[66] Rosenthal, Gregg. "Tyler Thigpen headed to Buffalo". Pro Football Talk. Retrieved July 28, 2011.

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@@ Line 58: / Line 58: @@
 Thigpen was the first quarterback in Coastal Carolina history, and wore the jersey number 16.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen - Coastal Carolina"/> The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers football program began in 2003.<ref name="StarTrib">{{cite web|title=Vikings sign quarterback Thigpen|url=http://www.startribune.com/510/story/1193044.html|date=May 18, 2007|work=[[Star Tribune]]|accessdate=May 19, 2007}}</ref> The team competes in the [[Big South Conference]] of the [[NCAA Division I Football Championship|NCAA Football Championship Subdivision]].
-Thigpen and the rest of the Chanticleers' first recruiting class redshirted their freshman year (2002).<ref name="Football sets">{{cite web | title=Football sets signing day press conference | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=3513 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=February 4, 2002 | accessdate=December 23, 2008}}{{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref><ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/> In 2003 he started nine of ten games for the team and was third on the team's roster in rushing.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/> After the Chanticleers' inaugural season in which the team finished with a 6–5 record, Thigpen led the team to a 10–1 record in 2004.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen - Coastal Carolina">{{cite web | title=Tyler Thigpen – Coastal Carolina | url=http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/players/104363 | publisher=Rivals.com | accessdate=November 27, 2008}}</ref> In 2004, Thigpen started the opening 8 games before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury against [[Gardner-Webb University|Gardner-Webb]].<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/> In 2005, Thigpen started all 11 games for the Chanticleers and earned the Big South Conference Offensive Player of the Week Award after rushing for 111 yards and 3 touchdowns and throwing for 157 yards in a victory over the [[Virginia Military Institute]].<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/><ref name="Football defeats">{{cite web | title=Football defeats VMI 38–14 to clinch share of Big South title | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=1084 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=October 29, 2005 | accessdate=December 23, 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20060219211637/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=1084 |archivedate = February 19, 2006}}</ref>
+Thigpen and the rest of the Chanticleers' first recruiting class redshirted their freshman year (2002).<ref name="Football sets">{{cite web | title=Football sets signing day press conference | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=3513 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=February 4, 2002 | accessdate=December 23, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110526055525/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=3513 | deadurl=yes | archivedate=26 May 2011 }}</ref><ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/> In 2003 he started nine of ten games for the team and was third on the team's roster in rushing.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/> After the Chanticleers' inaugural season in which the team finished with a 6–5 record, Thigpen led the team to a 10–1 record in 2004.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen - Coastal Carolina">{{cite web | title=Tyler Thigpen – Coastal Carolina | url=http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/players/104363 | publisher=Rivals.com | accessdate=November 27, 2008}}</ref> In 2004, Thigpen started the opening 8 games before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury against [[Gardner-Webb University|Gardner-Webb]].<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/> In 2005, Thigpen started all 11 games for the Chanticleers and earned the Big South Conference Offensive Player of the Week Award after rushing for 111 yards and 3 touchdowns and throwing for 157 yards in a victory over the [[Virginia Military Institute]].<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/><ref name="Football defeats">{{cite web | title=Football defeats VMI 38–14 to clinch share of Big South title | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=1084 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=October 29, 2005 | accessdate=December 23, 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20060219211637/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=1084 |archivedate = February 19, 2006}}</ref>
-In 2006, Thigpen became the first Chanticleer to be chosen a consensus [[All-American]].<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/><ref name="Chiefs to start Tyler">{{cite news | title=Chiefs to start Tyler Thigpen at QB | url=http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chiefs/2008-09-17-thigpen-start_N.htm | agency=Associated Press |work=USA Today | date=September 17, 2008 | accessdate=December 11, 2008}}</ref> He registered a career-high 119 rushing yards at Gardner-Webb, including a 76-yard [[Bootleg play|bootleg]].<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/><ref name="Resounding">{{cite web | title=Football gets resounding 52–24 win at Gardner-Webb | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=2456 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=November 11, 2006 | accessdate=December 23, 2008}}{{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> He was named [[Big South Conference]] Player of the Year in 2006, when he completed 217-of-339 passes for 3,296 yards and 29 touchdowns, and carried 113 times for 656 yards and five touchdowns.<ref name="StarTrib"/> Thigpen had a 30–8 record in four seasons (41 games and 39 starts).<ref name="Tyler Thigpen biography"/><ref name="Chiefs have own"/> From 2003 to 2006, the Chanticleers had a 34–11 record in Thigpen's four seasons with the team,<ref name="Football alum">{{cite web | title=Football alum Thigpen to make first NFL start Sunday | url=http://www.bigsouthsports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=4800&ATCLID=1584601 | author=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | publisher=Big South Conference | date=September 18, 2008 | accessdate=November 26, 2008}}</ref> winning three Big South Conference championships.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/>
+In 2006, Thigpen became the first Chanticleer to be chosen a consensus [[All-American]].<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/><ref name="Chiefs to start Tyler">{{cite news | title=Chiefs to start Tyler Thigpen at QB | url=http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chiefs/2008-09-17-thigpen-start_N.htm | agency=Associated Press |work=USA Today | date=September 17, 2008 | accessdate=December 11, 2008}}</ref> He registered a career-high 119 rushing yards at Gardner-Webb, including a 76-yard [[Bootleg play|bootleg]].<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/><ref name="Resounding">{{cite web | title=Football gets resounding 52–24 win at Gardner-Webb | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=2456 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=November 11, 2006 | accessdate=December 23, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110526055839/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=2456 | deadurl=yes | archivedate=26 May 2011 }}</ref> He was named [[Big South Conference]] Player of the Year in 2006, when he completed 217-of-339 passes for 3,296 yards and 29 touchdowns, and carried 113 times for 656 yards and five touchdowns.<ref name="StarTrib"/> Thigpen had a 30–8 record in four seasons (41 games and 39 starts).<ref name="Tyler Thigpen biography"/><ref name="Chiefs have own"/> From 2003 to 2006, the Chanticleers had a 34–11 record in Thigpen's four seasons with the team,<ref name="Football alum">{{cite web | title=Football alum Thigpen to make first NFL start Sunday | url=http://www.bigsouthsports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=4800&ATCLID=1584601 | author=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | publisher=Big South Conference | date=September 18, 2008 | accessdate=November 26, 2008}}</ref> winning three Big South Conference championships.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography"/>
-He played alongside wide receiver [[Jerome Simpson]] and running back [[Mike Tolbert]], both current NFL players, to help lead the young Chanticleers program to major victories against No. 1 [[James Madison University|James Madison]] in 2005,<ref>{{cite web | title=Football shocks No. 1 James Madison 31–27 | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=932 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=September 10, 2005 | accessdate=December 6, 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20051230225659/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=932 |archivedate = December 30, 2005}}</ref> and No. 3 [[Furman University|Furman]] in 2006.<ref>{{cite web | title=Football upsets No. 3 Furman 29–27 | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=2343 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=October 7, 2006 | accessdate=December 6, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> He led the Chanticleers to the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs and a Big South Conference championship.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen biography"/> Thigpen holds the single-season and career passing records in every major statistical category at Coastal Carolina.<ref name="Football alum"/><ref>{{cite web| title= Tyler Thigpen Biography| url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?player=828 |publisher= Coastal Carolina University Athletics | accessdate=May 4, 2007 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070501040646/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?player=828 |archivedate = May 1, 2007}}</ref>
+He played alongside wide receiver [[Jerome Simpson]] and running back [[Mike Tolbert]], both current NFL players, to help lead the young Chanticleers program to major victories against No. 1 [[James Madison University|James Madison]] in 2005,<ref>{{cite web | title=Football shocks No. 1 James Madison 31–27 | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=932 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=September 10, 2005 | accessdate=December 6, 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20051230225659/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=932 |archivedate = December 30, 2005}}</ref> and No. 3 [[Furman University|Furman]] in 2006.<ref>{{cite web | title=Football upsets No. 3 Furman 29–27 | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=2343 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=October 7, 2006 | accessdate=December 6, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110526055459/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=2343 | deadurl=yes | archivedate=26 May 2011 }}</ref> He led the Chanticleers to the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs and a Big South Conference championship.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen biography"/> Thigpen holds the single-season and career passing records in every major statistical category at Coastal Carolina.<ref name="Football alum"/><ref>{{cite web| title= Tyler Thigpen Biography| url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?player=828 |publisher= Coastal Carolina University Athletics | accessdate=May 4, 2007 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070501040646/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?player=828 |archivedate = May 1, 2007}}</ref>
 === Statistics ===
@@ Line 85: / Line 85: @@
 == Professional career ==
 === Pre-draft ===
-Thigpen was not invited to the [[NFL Scouting Combine]], but impressed NFL scouts at his pro day (held on March 8, 2007 on the campus of Coastal Carolina)<ref name="NFL Draft Scout"/><ref name="Football to host">{{cite web | title=Football to host Pro Day March 8 | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=3153 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=March 7, 2007 | accessdate=December 23, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> and attended a workout at [[Clemson University]] to help raise his draft stock.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography">{{cite web | title=Tyler Thigpen – Player Profile | url=http://www.vikings.com/TeamPlayerProfile_tyler_thigpen.aspx | accessdate=December 23, 2008 | publisher=Vikings.com |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080330001922/http://www.vikings.com/TeamPlayerProfile_tyler_thigpen.aspx |archivedate = March 30, 2008}}</ref>
+Thigpen was not invited to the [[NFL Scouting Combine]], but impressed NFL scouts at his pro day (held on March 8, 2007 on the campus of Coastal Carolina)<ref name="NFL Draft Scout"/><ref name="Football to host">{{cite web | title=Football to host Pro Day March 8 | url=http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=3153 | publisher=Coastal Carolina University Athletics | date=March 7, 2007 | accessdate=December 23, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110526055611/http://www.goccusports.com/football/?news=3153 | deadurl=yes | archivedate=26 May 2011 }}</ref> and attended a workout at [[Clemson University]] to help raise his draft stock.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen Vikings Biography">{{cite web | title=Tyler Thigpen – Player Profile | url=http://www.vikings.com/TeamPlayerProfile_tyler_thigpen.aspx | accessdate=December 23, 2008 | publisher=Vikings.com |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080330001922/http://www.vikings.com/TeamPlayerProfile_tyler_thigpen.aspx |archivedate = March 30, 2008}}</ref>
 {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:89%"
 | colspan="20" style="text-align:center;"| ''Pre-draft measureables''<ref name="NFL Draft Scout">{{cite web | title=Tyler Thigpen – Coastal Carolina, QB | url=http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=67191&draftyear=2007&genpos=QB | publisher=NFL Draft Scout | accessdate=December 6, 2008}}</ref>
@@ Line 126: / Line 126: @@
 ==== 2007 season ====
 {{Further|2007 Kansas City Chiefs season}}
-Several NFL teams had just two quarterbacks on their active roster heading into the season, including the Kansas City Chiefs, who had just recently released quarterbacks [[Casey Printers]] and [[Jeff Terrell (American football)|Jeff Terrell]].<ref name="VikingBuzz"/> Concerning the roster move, Thigpen said, "I definitely felt this was coming...I wasn't surprised by it at all. It was still a great opportunity for me and the Vikings are still trying to keep me around."<ref name="VikingBuzz"/> Thigpen was signed by the Chiefs the following day.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen biography">{{cite web | title=Tyler Thigpen biography | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/player/tyler_thigpen/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | accessdate=November 14, 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080822142516/http://www.kcchiefs.com/player/tyler_thigpen/ |archivedate = August 22, 2008}}{{dead link|date=September 2012}}</ref><ref name="Kansas City claims">{{cite web | title=Kansas City claims CB Rashad Barksdale and QB Tyler Thigpen on waivers | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2007/09/03/kansas_city_claims_cb_rashad_barksdale__qb_tyler_thigpen_on_waivers/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=September 3, 2007 | accessdate=December 14, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> Vikings head coach [[Brad Childress]] was reportedly upset when the Chiefs claimed Thigpen on waivers.<ref name="A Different Kind"/>
+Several NFL teams had just two quarterbacks on their active roster heading into the season, including the Kansas City Chiefs, who had just recently released quarterbacks [[Casey Printers]] and [[Jeff Terrell (American football)|Jeff Terrell]].<ref name="VikingBuzz"/> Concerning the roster move, Thigpen said, "I definitely felt this was coming...I wasn't surprised by it at all. It was still a great opportunity for me and the Vikings are still trying to keep me around."<ref name="VikingBuzz"/> Thigpen was signed by the Chiefs the following day.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen biography">{{cite web | title=Tyler Thigpen biography | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/player/tyler_thigpen/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | accessdate=November 14, 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080822142516/http://www.kcchiefs.com/player/tyler_thigpen/ |archivedate = August 22, 2008}}</ref><ref name="Kansas City claims">{{cite web | title=Kansas City claims CB Rashad Barksdale and QB Tyler Thigpen on waivers | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2007/09/03/kansas_city_claims_cb_rashad_barksdale__qb_tyler_thigpen_on_waivers/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=September 3, 2007 | accessdate=December 14, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110612012730/http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2007/09/03/kansas_city_claims_cb_rashad_barksdale__qb_tyler_thigpen_on_waivers/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=12 June 2011 }}</ref> Vikings head coach [[Brad Childress]] was reportedly upset when the Chiefs claimed Thigpen on waivers.<ref name="A Different Kind"/>
-Thigpen was seen as showing a lot of potential following a strong preseason, whereas the Vikings were otherwise thin on talent at the quarterback position.<ref name="VikingBuzz"/> Going into the 2007 NFL Draft, the Chiefs had Thigpen on their list of players that they had considering selecting in the later rounds, possibly with their seventh round selection (#231).<ref name="A Different Kind">{{cite web | title=A Different Kind of Homecoming | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/07/31/a_different_kind_of_homecoming/ | last=Gretz | first=Bob | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=July 31, 2008 | accessdate=November 26, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> As the draft played out, the Vikings chose Thigpen with the 217th choice.<ref name="A Different Kind"/>
+Thigpen was seen as showing a lot of potential following a strong preseason, whereas the Vikings were otherwise thin on talent at the quarterback position.<ref name="VikingBuzz"/> Going into the 2007 NFL Draft, the Chiefs had Thigpen on their list of players that they had considering selecting in the later rounds, possibly with their seventh round selection (#231).<ref name="A Different Kind">{{cite web | title=A Different Kind of Homecoming | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/07/31/a_different_kind_of_homecoming/ | last=Gretz | first=Bob | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=July 31, 2008 | accessdate=November 26, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110612012720/http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/07/31/a_different_kind_of_homecoming/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=12 June 2011 }}</ref> As the draft played out, the Vikings chose Thigpen with the 217th choice.<ref name="A Different Kind"/>
 With the Chiefs, Thigpen made his regular season debut replacing an injured [[Damon Huard]] versus the [[San Diego Chargers]] on December 12, 2007 in the game's final minutes.<ref name="Week 13 2007">{{cite web | title=Week 13 2007 – San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs | url=http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29374/KC_Gamebook.pdf | publisher=National Football League | format=PDF | date=December 12, 2007 | accessdate=December 24, 2008}}</ref> The Chiefs lost the game by a score of 24–10.<ref name="Week 13 2007"/> Thigpen finished the game 2-of-6 for 41 yards and an interception.<ref name="Chiefs have own">{{cite news | title=Chiefs have own QB problems as they play host to Oakland |url=http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/preview?game_id=29548&displayPage=tab_preview&season=2008&week=REG2 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=NFL  | date=September 15, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}}</ref><ref name="Week 13 2007"/> Later in the week at practice, he tore his [[medial collateral ligament]] (MCL) and was placed on [[injured reserve]], ending his season.<ref name="Tyler Thigpen biography"/>
@@ Line 137: / Line 137: @@
 Thigpen was listed as the third-string quarterback on the Chiefs' [[depth chart]] at the beginning of the [[2008 NFL season]]<ref name="Patriots trade Cassel">{{cite news | title=Patriots trade Cassel to Kansas City | url=http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/29443788/ | agency=Associated Press |publisher=MSNBC | date=February 28, 2009 | accessdate=February 28, 2009}}</ref> and made his season debut on September 14 against the [[Oakland Raiders]], when [[Damon Huard]] left with "mild head trauma."<ref name="replaced by Thigpen">{{cite news | title=Chiefs' Huard replaced by Thigpen after injury | agency=Associated Press| url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3587431 |publisher=ESPN | date=September 14, 2008 | accessdate=September 14, 2008}}</ref><ref name="Despite firing">{{cite news | title=Despite firing reports, Kiffin, McFadden lead Raiders over Chiefs | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=280914012 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=September 14, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}}</ref> Thigpen connected on 14-of-33 passes for 151 yards.<ref name="Despite firing"/> Thigpen made his first NFL start on September 21, 2008 against the [[Atlanta Falcons]].<ref name="Thigpen to start">{{cite news | title=Chiefs QB Thigpen to start vs. Falcons | agency=Associated Press | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3593861 |publisher=ESPN | date=September 17, 2008 | accessdate=September 17, 2008}}</ref> Thigpen struggled in the game, finishing 14-of-36 and passing for 128 yards with 3 interceptions in the 14–38 loss.<ref name="Turner scores">{{cite news | title=Turner scores three TDs as Falcons handle listless Chiefs | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=280921001 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=September 21, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}}</ref> The Chiefs trailed the Falcons 24–0 until Thigpen threw a touchdown pass to [[Dwayne Bowe]] just before halftime.<ref name="Turner scores"/> Thigpen's third interception was returned for a touchdown with just over a minute remaining in the game.<ref name="Turner scores"/> In the week prior to the game, Chiefs coach [[Herman Edwards]] insisted he would substitute [[Damon Huard]] into the game if Thigpen struggled.<ref name="Turner scores"/> Edwards contemplated it during the game, but decided against it reasoning that Thigpen "put some points on the board."<ref name="Turner scores"/> Following the game, asked if Thigpen would keep the starting job, Edwards said, "We'll see."<ref name="Turner scores"/>
-The following week, Huard was retained as the Chiefs' starting quarterback.<ref name="Huard will start">{{cite news | title=Huard will start at quarterback Sunday for Kansas City | url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80b168a8&template=with-video&confirm=true | agency=Associated Press |publisher=NFL  | date=September 22, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}}</ref> However, Thigpen was again awarded the starting position after Croyle and Huard were placed on injured reserve, ending both of their seasons.<ref name="Croyle sprains">{{cite news | agency=Associated Press | title=Chiefs QB Croyle sprains right knee, done for the season  |publisher=ESPN | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3652130 | date=October 19, 2008 | accessdate=October 19, 2008}}</ref><ref name="Breaking the Mold">{{cite web | title=Breaking the Mold | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/13/breaking_the_mold/ | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=November 13, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
+The following week, Huard was retained as the Chiefs' starting quarterback.<ref name="Huard will start">{{cite news | title=Huard will start at quarterback Sunday for Kansas City | url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80b168a8&template=with-video&confirm=true | agency=Associated Press |publisher=NFL  | date=September 22, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}}</ref> However, Thigpen was again awarded the starting position after Croyle and Huard were placed on injured reserve, ending both of their seasons.<ref name="Croyle sprains">{{cite news | agency=Associated Press | title=Chiefs QB Croyle sprains right knee, done for the season  |publisher=ESPN | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3652130 | date=October 19, 2008 | accessdate=October 19, 2008}}</ref><ref name="Breaking the Mold">{{cite web | title=Breaking the Mold | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/13/breaking_the_mold/ | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=November 13, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110713141934/http://kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/13/breaking_the_mold/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=13 July 2011 }}</ref>
 {{Quote box
@@ Line 148: / Line 148: @@
 [[Image:081116Saints-Chiefs.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Thigpen (second from right) lines up with the Chiefs in a [[pistol offense]] formation.]]
 [[Image:081116Saints-Chiefs02.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Thigpen (first from left) lines up as a wide receiver on offense as RB Larry Johnson lines up as the quarterback in a [[wildcat formation]].]]
-With the absence of running back [[Larry Johnson (American football)|Larry Johnson]], the central part of the Chiefs' offense in years past, offensive coordinator [[Chan Gailey]] adjusted the offense to mimic the spread formation run by Thigpen at Coastal Carolina.<ref name="Spread changes"/><ref name="Breaking the Mold"/> Herman Edwards and Chan Gailey chose to implement the spread offense in order to prepare Thigpen for his second career start.<ref name="Spread changes">{{cite web | title=Spread changes options for Chiefs | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?id=3717080 | last=Chadiha | first=Jeffri |publisher=ESPN | date=November 21, 2008 | accessdate=November 26, 2008}}</ref> By changing the gameplan, the Chiefs' offense began to find an identity after swapping their power running game for spread-type formations that best suited Thigpen.<ref name="The next step">{{cite web | title=The next step | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/11/the_next_step/ | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=November 11, 2008 | accessdate=December 24, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
+With the absence of running back [[Larry Johnson (American football)|Larry Johnson]], the central part of the Chiefs' offense in years past, offensive coordinator [[Chan Gailey]] adjusted the offense to mimic the spread formation run by Thigpen at Coastal Carolina.<ref name="Spread changes"/><ref name="Breaking the Mold"/> Herman Edwards and Chan Gailey chose to implement the spread offense in order to prepare Thigpen for his second career start.<ref name="Spread changes">{{cite web | title=Spread changes options for Chiefs | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?id=3717080 | last=Chadiha | first=Jeffri |publisher=ESPN | date=November 21, 2008 | accessdate=November 26, 2008}}</ref> By changing the gameplan, the Chiefs' offense began to find an identity after swapping their power running game for spread-type formations that best suited Thigpen.<ref name="The next step">{{cite web | title=The next step | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/11/the_next_step/ | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=November 11, 2008 | accessdate=December 24, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110612012735/http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/11/the_next_step/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=12 June 2011 }}</ref>
-By implementing the spread offense, the Chiefs made a huge gamble, as most in the NFL believe that a [[spread offense]] cannot work in professional football.<ref name="Spread changes"/> Upon [[Larry Johnson (American football)|Larry Johnson]]'s return, [[Chan Gailey]] and Edwards implemented the [[pistol offense]] to keep Thigpen in the spread while allowing Johnson to run downhill.<ref name="Spread changes"/><ref name="Breaking the Mold"/> However efficient the Chiefs became in running the spread offense, it became limited in the [[Red zone (football)|red zone]], and the Chiefs struggled to finish out winning games.<ref name="Leaking everywhere">{{cite web | title=Leaking everywhere | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/18/leaking_everywhere/ | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=November 18, 2008 | accessdate=December 24, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
+By implementing the spread offense, the Chiefs made a huge gamble, as most in the NFL believe that a [[spread offense]] cannot work in professional football.<ref name="Spread changes"/> Upon [[Larry Johnson (American football)|Larry Johnson]]'s return, [[Chan Gailey]] and Edwards implemented the [[pistol offense]] to keep Thigpen in the spread while allowing Johnson to run downhill.<ref name="Spread changes"/><ref name="Breaking the Mold"/> However efficient the Chiefs became in running the spread offense, it became limited in the [[Red zone (football)|red zone]], and the Chiefs struggled to finish out winning games.<ref name="Leaking everywhere">{{cite web | title=Leaking everywhere | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/18/leaking_everywhere/ | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=November 18, 2008 | accessdate=December 24, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110612012739/http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/18/leaking_everywhere/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=12 June 2011 }}</ref>
 In Thigpen's second career start, he passed for 280 yards with a 69.4% completion rate, with two touchdowns and no interceptions against the [[New York Jets]], nearly leading the Chiefs to win over the heavily-favored Jets.<ref name="Favre connects">{{cite news | title=Favre connects with Coles in final minute to lift Jets to win | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281026020 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=October 26, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}}</ref>
-Thigpen scored his first receiving touchdown the following week versus the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]].<ref name="Bucs overcome"/> The 37-yard pass was from wide receiver [[Mark Bradley]] in a [[Wildcat offense|Wildcat formation]].<ref name="Bucs overcome"/> Thigpen also passed for 164 yards, a touchdown, no interceptions, and a 56.0% completion rate in the 30–27 loss against the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]].<ref name="Bucs overcome"/> Thigpen became only the fifth player in Chiefs' history (and the first quarterback) to throw a touchdown pass and also score touchdowns by running and receiving.<ref name="Bucs overcome"/><ref name="Chiefs-Bucs Postgame Notes">{{cite web | title=Chiefs-Bucs postgame notes | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/02/chiefsbucs_postgame_notes/ | date=November 2, 2008 | accessdate=December 24, 2008 | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> In the game, the Chiefs led 24–3 with a little more than two minutes remaining in the second quarter and seemed headed for just their second victory of the season.<ref name="Bucs overcome">{{cite news | title=Bucs overcome four turnovers, 21-point deficit en route to OT win | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281102012 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=November 2, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}}</ref> The Buccaneers rallied back and won the game in overtime with 24 unanswered points.<ref name="Bucs overcome"/>
+Thigpen scored his first receiving touchdown the following week versus the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]].<ref name="Bucs overcome"/> The 37-yard pass was from wide receiver [[Mark Bradley]] in a [[Wildcat offense|Wildcat formation]].<ref name="Bucs overcome"/> Thigpen also passed for 164 yards, a touchdown, no interceptions, and a 56.0% completion rate in the 30–27 loss against the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]].<ref name="Bucs overcome"/> Thigpen became only the fifth player in Chiefs' history (and the first quarterback) to throw a touchdown pass and also score touchdowns by running and receiving.<ref name="Bucs overcome"/><ref name="Chiefs-Bucs Postgame Notes">{{cite web | title=Chiefs-Bucs postgame notes | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/02/chiefsbucs_postgame_notes/ | date=November 2, 2008 | accessdate=December 24, 2008 | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110612012751/http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/02/chiefsbucs_postgame_notes/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=12 June 2011 }}</ref> In the game, the Chiefs led 24–3 with a little more than two minutes remaining in the second quarter and seemed headed for just their second victory of the season.<ref name="Bucs overcome">{{cite news | title=Bucs overcome four turnovers, 21-point deficit en route to OT win | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281102012 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=November 2, 2008 | accessdate=November 14, 2008}}</ref> The Buccaneers rallied back and won the game in overtime with 24 unanswered points.<ref name="Bucs overcome"/>
 [[Image:TylerThigpen110908.jpg|thumb|245px|left|Thigpen avoids a sack from [[Shaun Phillips]] in a game against the San Diego Chargers.]]Thigpen continued his impressive play the following week in the Chiefs' 20–19 loss to the [[San Diego Chargers]], completing 27-of-41 passes for 266 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions.<ref name="Chiefs' 2-point">{{cite news | title=Chiefs' 2-point conversion falls short as Chargers avoid upset | url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281109024 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=November 9, 2008 | accessdate=December 4, 2008}}</ref> That gave him six touchdown passes and no turnovers in his previous three games.<ref name="Chiefs' 2-point"/>
@@ Line 160: / Line 160: @@
 After throwing three interceptions against the Falcons and appearing lucky to avoid throwing twice that many, Thigpen competed 124 straight passes without an interception through Week 10.<ref name="Breaking the Mold"/> Thigpen's no-interception streak ended at 161 in the closing seconds of a 30–20 loss to the [[New Orleans Saints]], but Thigpen still managed to complete 19-of-38 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns to [[Dwayne Bowe]].<ref name="Brees throws">{{cite news | title=Brees throws for 266 yards and TD to help Saints win in Kansas City | url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281116012 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=November 16, 2008 | accessdate=December 4, 2008}}</ref> Thigpen became the first Chiefs quarterback to throw a touchdown pass in four consecutive games since [[Trent Green]] in 2005.<ref name="Brees throws"/>
-Prior to the Chiefs implementing the spread offense, Thigpen had been playing erratically with the Chiefs, and he suddenly became poised and effective running the new offense.<ref name="A copycat game">{{cite web | title=A copycat game | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/12/02/a_copycat_game/ | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=December 2, 2008 | accessdate=December 3, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> His passer rating has climbed from 44.3 to 76.9 in the five games following his initial start at Atlanta.<ref name="A copycat game"/> The Chiefs scored more than 10 points just twice in their first six games,<ref name="A copycat game"/> but scored more offensive points than that in every game after, and twice had topped 25.<ref name="A copycat game"/>
+Prior to the Chiefs implementing the spread offense, Thigpen had been playing erratically with the Chiefs, and he suddenly became poised and effective running the new offense.<ref name="A copycat game">{{cite web | title=A copycat game | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/12/02/a_copycat_game/ | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=December 2, 2008 | accessdate=December 3, 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110612012240/http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/12/02/a_copycat_game/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=12 June 2011 }}</ref> His passer rating has climbed from 44.3 to 76.9 in the five games following his initial start at Atlanta.<ref name="A copycat game"/> The Chiefs scored more than 10 points just twice in their first six games,<ref name="A copycat game"/> but scored more offensive points than that in every game after, and twice had topped 25.<ref name="A copycat game"/>
 Thigpen had his first bad game in five outings against the [[Buffalo Bills]] on November 23 in the Chiefs' 54–31 loss.<ref name="Edwards helps Bills">{{cite news | title=Edwards helps Bills score most against Chiefs in history | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281123012 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN |  date=November 23, 2008}}</ref> Thigpen's three turnovers (two interceptions and one lost fumble) led to 20 points by the Bills.<ref name="Edwards helps Bills"/> Despite the turnovers, Thigpen also threw for 240 yards and three touchdowns.<ref name="Edwards helps Bills"/>
@@ Line 177: / Line 177: @@
 ==== 2009 season ====
 {{Further|2009 Kansas City Chiefs season}}
-Following a 2–14 season, Thigpen appeared to be the Chiefs' lone quarterback who would remain in their plans for 2009,<ref name="Worth a look">{{cite web | title=Worth a look | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/20/worth_a_look/ | date=November 20, 2008 | accessdate=December 24, 2008 | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> especially after Damon Huard was released.<ref name="Chiefs announce four">{{cite web | title=Chiefs announce four transactions | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/24/chiefs_announce_four_transactions/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=February 24, 2009 | accessdate=February 24, 2009}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> Though Thigpen had earned the right to compete for the starting job, the Chiefs were expected to add a high-end quarterback through free agency or the [[2009 NFL Draft]].<ref name="Worth a look"/><ref name="Gonzalez"/> Despite impressing coaches in Brodie Croyle and Damon Huard's absence, Thigpen was not a lock for the starting job.<ref name="Questions">{{cite web | title=Questions abound as Chiefs fall to Bengals | url=http://kan.scout.com/2/825139.html | last=Athan | first=Nick | publisher=Warpaint Illustrated (Scout.com) | date=December 28, 2008 | accessdate=December 28, 2008}}</ref> Chiefs tight end [[Tony Gonzalez (tight end)|Tony Gonzalez]] voiced his support for Thigpen to retain the position for the 2009 season.<ref name="Gonzalez"/> "It would be a disgrace if they don't (keep Thigpen as the starting quarterback)", Gonzalez told [[ESPN]]. "We've been playing well since he came in...I could see this being a playoff team next year. I could see us turning it around."<ref name="Gonzalez"/> Gonzalez was later traded to the [[Atlanta Falcons]].<ref name="Chiefs trade Gonzalez">{{cite news | title=Chiefs trade Gonzalez for 2010 draft pick | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4092471 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=April 23, 2009 | accessdate=April 23, 2009}}</ref>
+Following a 2–14 season, Thigpen appeared to be the Chiefs' lone quarterback who would remain in their plans for 2009,<ref name="Worth a look">{{cite web | title=Worth a look | url=http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/20/worth_a_look/ | date=November 20, 2008 | accessdate=December 24, 2008 | last=Rand | first=Jonathan | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110612012758/http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2008/11/20/worth_a_look/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=12 June 2011 }}</ref> especially after Damon Huard was released.<ref name="Chiefs announce four">{{cite web | title=Chiefs announce four transactions | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/24/chiefs_announce_four_transactions/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=February 24, 2009 | accessdate=February 24, 2009| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110713141954/http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/24/chiefs_announce_four_transactions/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=13 July 2011 }}</ref> Though Thigpen had earned the right to compete for the starting job, the Chiefs were expected to add a high-end quarterback through free agency or the [[2009 NFL Draft]].<ref name="Worth a look"/><ref name="Gonzalez"/> Despite impressing coaches in Brodie Croyle and Damon Huard's absence, Thigpen was not a lock for the starting job.<ref name="Questions">{{cite web | title=Questions abound as Chiefs fall to Bengals | url=http://kan.scout.com/2/825139.html | last=Athan | first=Nick | publisher=Warpaint Illustrated (Scout.com) | date=December 28, 2008 | accessdate=December 28, 2008}}</ref> Chiefs tight end [[Tony Gonzalez (tight end)|Tony Gonzalez]] voiced his support for Thigpen to retain the position for the 2009 season.<ref name="Gonzalez"/> "It would be a disgrace if they don't (keep Thigpen as the starting quarterback)", Gonzalez told [[ESPN]]. "We've been playing well since he came in...I could see this being a playoff team next year. I could see us turning it around."<ref name="Gonzalez"/> Gonzalez was later traded to the [[Atlanta Falcons]].<ref name="Chiefs trade Gonzalez">{{cite news | title=Chiefs trade Gonzalez for 2010 draft pick | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4092471 | agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN | date=April 23, 2009 | accessdate=April 23, 2009}}</ref>
-The ''[[Kansas City Star]]'' reported that Herman Edwards' coaching staff would meet after the 2008 season to debate Thigpen's prospects and whether to keep the spread offense the team adjusted to in a seemingly temporary move earlier this season.<ref name="Gonzalez">{{cite web | title=Gonzalez: It's a 'disgrace' if Chiefs don't stick with Thigpen in '09 | url=http://content.usatoday.com/topics/post/People/Athletes/NFL/Tyler+Thigpen/59802778.blog/1 | work=USA Today | last=Leahy | first=Sean | date=December 10, 2008 | accessdate=January 10, 2009}}</ref> Edwards was fired as head coach but Chan Gailey, who implemented the spread offense, was retained as offensive coordinator under new head coach [[Todd Haley]].<ref name="Chiefs fire Edwards">{{cite web | title=Chiefs fire Edwards; Shanahan next? | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3855917 |publisher=ESPN | date=January 23, 2009 | accessdate=January 23, 2009}}</ref><ref name="Edwards relieved">{{cite web | title=Herm Edwards relieved of duties as Chiefs head coach | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/01/23/herm_edwards_relieved_of_duties_as_chiefs_head_coach/ | date=January 23, 2009 | accessdate=January 23, 2009 | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref><ref name="staff moves">{{cite web | title=Kansas City Chiefs announce coaching staff moves | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/17/kansas_city_chiefs_announce_coaching_staff_moves/ | date=February 17, 2009 | accessdate=February 17, 2009 | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref><ref name="Carthon">{{cite web | title=Kansas City Chiefs add Maurice Carthon to coaching staff | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/19/kansas_city_chiefs_add_maurice_carthon_to_coaching_staff/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=February 19, 2009 | accessdate=February 19, 2009}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
+The ''[[Kansas City Star]]'' reported that Herman Edwards' coaching staff would meet after the 2008 season to debate Thigpen's prospects and whether to keep the spread offense the team adjusted to in a seemingly temporary move earlier this season.<ref name="Gonzalez">{{cite web | title=Gonzalez: It's a 'disgrace' if Chiefs don't stick with Thigpen in '09 | url=http://content.usatoday.com/topics/post/People/Athletes/NFL/Tyler+Thigpen/59802778.blog/1 | work=USA Today | last=Leahy | first=Sean | date=December 10, 2008 | accessdate=January 10, 2009}}</ref> Edwards was fired as head coach but Chan Gailey, who implemented the spread offense, was retained as offensive coordinator under new head coach [[Todd Haley]].<ref name="Chiefs fire Edwards">{{cite web | title=Chiefs fire Edwards; Shanahan next? | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3855917 |publisher=ESPN | date=January 23, 2009 | accessdate=January 23, 2009}}</ref><ref name="Edwards relieved">{{cite web | title=Herm Edwards relieved of duties as Chiefs head coach | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/01/23/herm_edwards_relieved_of_duties_as_chiefs_head_coach/ | date=January 23, 2009 | accessdate=January 23, 2009 | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110713141947/http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/01/23/herm_edwards_relieved_of_duties_as_chiefs_head_coach/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=13 July 2011 }}</ref><ref name="staff moves">{{cite web | title=Kansas City Chiefs announce coaching staff moves | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/17/kansas_city_chiefs_announce_coaching_staff_moves/ | date=February 17, 2009 | accessdate=February 17, 2009 | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110612013046/http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/17/kansas_city_chiefs_announce_coaching_staff_moves/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=12 June 2011 }}</ref><ref name="Carthon">{{cite web | title=Kansas City Chiefs add Maurice Carthon to coaching staff | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/19/kansas_city_chiefs_add_maurice_carthon_to_coaching_staff/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=February 19, 2009 | accessdate=February 19, 2009| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110713141957/http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/19/kansas_city_chiefs_add_maurice_carthon_to_coaching_staff/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=13 July 2011 }}</ref>
-The Chiefs acquired quarterback [[Matt Cassel]] from the [[New England Patriots]] on February 28 for a second-round draft selection.<ref name="Patriots trade Cassel"/><ref name="Chiefs complete">{{cite web | title=Chiefs complete trade for Cassel | url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/peter_king/02/28/chiefs.trade.for.cassel/index.html | last=King | first=Peter | work=Sports Illustrated | date=February 28, 2009 | accessdate=February 28, 2009}}</ref><ref name="Cassel, Vrabel">{{cite web | title=Chiefs acquire QB Matt Cassel, LB Mike Vrabel in trade with Patriots | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/28/chiefs_acquire_qb_matt_cassel_lb_mike_vrabel_in_trade_with_patriots/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=February 28, 2009 | accessdate=February 28, 2009}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
+The Chiefs acquired quarterback [[Matt Cassel]] from the [[New England Patriots]] on February 28 for a second-round draft selection.<ref name="Patriots trade Cassel"/><ref name="Chiefs complete">{{cite web | title=Chiefs complete trade for Cassel | url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/peter_king/02/28/chiefs.trade.for.cassel/index.html | last=King | first=Peter | work=Sports Illustrated | date=February 28, 2009 | accessdate=February 28, 2009}}</ref><ref name="Cassel, Vrabel">{{cite web | title=Chiefs acquire QB Matt Cassel, LB Mike Vrabel in trade with Patriots | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/28/chiefs_acquire_qb_matt_cassel_lb_mike_vrabel_in_trade_with_patriots/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=February 28, 2009 | accessdate=February 28, 2009| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110713142004/http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/02/28/chiefs_acquire_qb_matt_cassel_lb_mike_vrabel_in_trade_with_patriots/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=13 July 2011 }}</ref>
-Head coach Todd Haley initially said that Thigpen would compete against Cassel for the starting quarterback position,<ref name="Q&A Haley March 2, 2009">{{cite web | title=Q&A with head coach Todd Haley | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/03/02/qa_with_todd_haley_3_2_09/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=March 2, 2009 | accessdate=March 2, 2009}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> but the first depth chart in training camp listed Thigpen as the third quarterback behind Brodie Croyle.<ref name="Thigpen and Croyle duel"/> Thigpen competed with Croyle for the backup quarterback position,<ref name="Thigpen and Croyle duel"/> and the Chiefs listened to trade offers in exchange for Thigpen throughout the offseason. The [[Jacksonville Jaguars]] offering a fifth-round draft pick but Kansas City ultimately declined.<ref name="A case">{{cite web | title=A case for Tyler Thigpen | url=http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/08/27/a-case-for-tyler-thigpen/ |publisher=NFL  | date=August 27, 2009 | accessdate=August 27, 2009}}</ref>
+Head coach Todd Haley initially said that Thigpen would compete against Cassel for the starting quarterback position,<ref name="Q&A Haley March 2, 2009">{{cite web | title=Q&A with head coach Todd Haley | url=http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/03/02/qa_with_todd_haley_3_2_09/ | publisher=Kansas City Chiefs | date=March 2, 2009 | accessdate=March 2, 2009| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20100113062355/http://kcchiefs.com/news/2009/03/02/qa_with_todd_haley_3_2_09/ | deadurl=yes | archivedate=13 January 2010 }}</ref> but the first depth chart in training camp listed Thigpen as the third quarterback behind Brodie Croyle.<ref name="Thigpen and Croyle duel"/> Thigpen competed with Croyle for the backup quarterback position,<ref name="Thigpen and Croyle duel"/> and the Chiefs listened to trade offers in exchange for Thigpen throughout the offseason. The [[Jacksonville Jaguars]] offering a fifth-round draft pick but Kansas City ultimately declined.<ref name="A case">{{cite web | title=A case for Tyler Thigpen | url=http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/08/27/a-case-for-tyler-thigpen/ |publisher=NFL  | date=August 27, 2009 | accessdate=August 27, 2009}}</ref>
 Thigpen played in Week 1 against the [[Baltimore Ravens]], having one rushing attempt for two yards.<ref name="Kansas City 24, Baltimore 38">{{cite news | title=Kansas City 24, Baltimore 38 | url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=290913033 |publisher=ESPN | agency=Associated Press | date=September 13, 2009 | accessdate=November 13, 2009}}</ref> He was listed as inactive for weeks two and three.

v t e Buffalo Bills roster
Active	0 Keon Coleman 1 Curtis Samuel 2 Tyler Bass 3 Damar Hamlin 4 James Cook 5 Kaiir Elam 7 Taron Johnson 8 Sam Martin 9 Taylor Rapp 10 Khalil Shakir 11 Mitchell Trubisky 13 Mack Hollins 15 Marquez Valdes-Scantling 17 Josh Allen 21 Mike Edwards 22 Ray Davis 24 Cole Bishop 26 Ty Johnson 29 Brandon Codrington 31 Rasul Douglas 39 Cam Lewis 40 Von Miller 41 Reggie Gilliam 42 Dorian Williams 43 Terrel Bernard 44 Joe Andreessen 46 Ja'Marcus Ingram 47 Christian Benford 48 Edefuan Ulofoshio 50 Greg Rousseau 52 Nicholas Morrow 54 Baylon Spector 56 Javon Solomon 57 A. J. Epenesa 62 Sedrick Van Pran-Granger 64 O'Cyrus Torrence 66 Connor McGovern 69 Reid Ferguson 70 Alec Anderson 73 Dion Dawkins 74 Ryan Van Demark 76 David Edwards 77 Will Clapp 79 Spencer Brown 85 Quintin Morris 86 Dalton Kincaid 88 Dawson Knox 90 DeWayne Carter 91 Ed Oliver 92 DaQuan Jones 94 Dawuane Smoot 98 Austin Johnson 99 Casey Toohill
Practice squad	14 Mike White 19 K. J. Hamler 20 Frank Gore Jr. 25 Daequan Hardy 27 Kareem Jackson 33 Te'Cory Couch 36 Lewis Cine 51 Eli Ankou 53 Branson Deen 59 Kingsley Jonathan 65 Mike Edwards 75 Richard Gouraige 80 Tyrell Shavers 84 Zach Davidson 87 Ahmarean Brown 89 Jalen Virgil 96 Kameron Cline
Reserve lists	6 Shane Buechele (IR) 37 Darrynton Evans (IR) 58 Matt Milano (IR) 67 Travis Clayton (IR) 68 Tylan Grable (IR) 72 Tommy Doyle (PUP)
AFC East BUF MIA NE NYJ North BAL CIN CLE PIT South HOU IND JAX TEN West DEN KC LV LAC NFC East DAL NYG PHI WAS North CHI DET GB MIN South ATL CAR NO TB West ARI LAR SF SEA