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Chiefs’ Joshua Kaindoh Reveals Andy Reid’s Grueling Drill That Left Travis Kelce “Sick” from Its Intensity

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Kansas City, MO – In the early morning mist at Arrowhead, the coach’s whistle blares, signaling the start of one of the most daunting challenges for every Chiefs player: the “Long Drive Drill” – a true test of endurance and survival instinct under Andy Reid’s reign.

It’s not exactly a well-kept secret, but it wasn’t until former defensive end Joshua Kaindoh opened up about it that fans truly grasped the drill’s “brutality.” Speaking seriously on a recent podcast, Kaindoh shared:

“Basically, it’s a series of extended drills, simulating the longest possible offensive drive—no stops, no slowing down, continuous ‘no-huddle’ for over ten minutes. If a player runs out of stamina, gives up, or simply can’t keep pace, they’re almost certain to be cut from the 53-man roster.”

Kaindoh emphasized that this is not a challenge for the faint of heart—even superstars like Travis Kelce have reportedly been “sick to their stomachs,” vomiting right on the field after being pushed to their absolute physical limits.

The Long Drive Drill is more than just a grueling physical test—it’s a mental crucible. For over ten relentless minutes, every small mistake, every moment of hesitation is exposed. Anyone lacking resilience or composure is quickly weeded out. Andy Reid uses this drill as a “gatekeeper” for anyone dreaming of wearing Kansas City’s iconic red and gold.

Outside Arrowhead, many still believe the Chiefs’ success is built solely on the natural talent of Patrick Mahomes or the savvy of Travis Kelce. But inside, it’s those sweat-soaked mornings—where body and spirit are relentlessly forged—that truly build an unbreakable dynasty.

What do young players learn from this ordeal? Humility in the face of adversity, determination in every stride, and a fierce pride if they’re strong enough to survive until the final whistle.

Arrowhead has always been a stage for the relentless—and Andy Reid is the director who never stops raising the bar for survival in Kansas City.

Vikings Rookie Cut Before Season Retires to Join Military Service
The NFL is often described as the pinnacle of athletic dreams, but for one Minnesota rookie, the path to greatness has taken a turn away from the gridiron and toward a higher calling. After signing as an undrafted free agent in May, the young cornerback fought through training camp and preseason battles, hoping to carve out a roster spot on a Vikings team searching for secondary depth and identity. That player is Zemaiah Vaughn, a standout from the University of Utah who built his name as a long, competitive boundary corner with special-teams upside. Waived in late August, Vaughn stunned teammates and fans by announcing his retirement from professional football and his decision to enlist in the U.S. military, trading a Vikings jersey for a soldier’s uniform. “I lived my NFL dream in Minnesota, but being cut before the season opened another path,” Vaughn said in a statement. “This isn’t the end — it’s a higher calling. Now, I choose to serve my country with the same heart I gave the Vikings.” At 6’3” and 187 pounds, Vaughn brought elite length for a boundary role and made his mark with poise, vision, and leadership. His preseason PFF grade of 65 reflected consistency, though the roster competition proved overwhelming. For the Vikings, the move closes the chapter on a developmental project. For Vaughn, it begins a profound new journey that echoes his reputation as a “hidden gem” — a player who always found ways to rise above. Fans in Minnesota and across the college football community saluted the decision on social media, calling it “the ultimate sacrifice” and “proof that heart is bigger than the game.” Vaughn leaves the NFL, but his next mission may prove even greater.