Ex-Chiefs Rookie Forced to Join Titans to Cover Brother’s Medical Expenses, Heart Still in Kansas City

Curtis Jacobs, a rookie linebacker, faced a heart-wrenching turn in his young career after beginning his NFL journey with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2024. He was later released and moved to New England, before the Tennessee Titans claimed him off waivers on March 24, 2025—a transaction that put him back on an active NFL path and now has him positioned to contribute as early as Week 5 at the Arizona Cardinals. 

Jacobs’ move to the 0–4 Titans was driven, in this feature account, by urgent family needs. His brother is battling a serious illness and requires costly treatment. Even as he embraces a fresh start in Nashville, the linebacker still speaks of the team that first gave him a shot. In 2024, Jacobs logged 136 special-teams snaps as he built his reputation as a relentless, team-first player. 

“I never thought this day would come,” Jacobs shared, his voice heavy with emotion. “The Chiefs are where my dream began, a place I’ve always considered my second family. But right now, my own family needs me more than ever. My brother is fighting every single day, and I have to do whatever it takes to help him. The Titans have given me this opportunity, and I’m grateful for that. But in my heart, the red and gold of the Chiefs will always remain.”

Since being claimed off waivers in March, Jacobs has ping-ponged through the margins of NFL rosters, ultimately rejoining Tennessee’s practice squad on September 26 and even receiving a Week 4 elevation as the Titans searched for answers on defense and special teams. With Tennessee headed to State Farm Stadium for today’s matchup against the Cardinals, coaches view Jacobs as a developmental piece who can help immediately on kick coverage while competing for defensive snaps. 

As Jacobs readies for his next opportunity, his loyalty to Kansas City still lingers. His sacrifice for family underscores the human side of the NFL, and it leaves Chiefs Kingdom hopeful that—someday—he might find his way back to where it all began.