Chiefs, GM Scott Pioli part ways

It took a few days longer than some Chiefs fans would have liked, but the organization and general manager Scott Pioli have parted ways.

"After several productive conversations, we made the difficult decision to part ways with Scott Pioli and allow him to pursue other opportunities," Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said in a statement released by the team. "Scott has been an invaluable member of the Chiefs family since joining us in 2009, and we sincerely appreciate his tremendous contributions over the last four years.

"I know that this was a difficult decision for Scott as well. He has a great deal of appreciation for the history of this franchise, for our players, coaches and employees, and especially our great fans.

"There is no way to overstate the level of respect and admiration I have for Scott on a personal level," Hunt continued. "His character, loyalty, integrity and commitment to a team are extraordinary, and throughout the last four years, he has consistently put the best interests of the Chiefs ahead of his own. I know he will go on to enjoy further success in the National Football League, and I certainly wish him the best in the future."

This could open the door for the Chiefs to hire former Eagles coach Andy Reid, who met with the team on Thursday into Friday morning. Reid reportedly wants to bring former Browns and Eagles executive Tom Heckert with him to Kansas City, which meant Pioli would've been the odd man out.

Pioli released the following statement through the team.

"I would like to thank Norma, Clark and the Hunt Family for the opportunity that they gave me four years ago. I'd also like to thank the players, coaches, scouts and countless other employees, throughout the organization and at Arrowhead Stadium that have worked so hard during my time here. I would also like to genuinely thank Chiefs fans.

"The bottom line is that I did not accomplish all of what I set out to do. To the Hunt family -- to the great fans of the Kansas City Chiefs -- to the players, all employees and alumni, I truly apologize for not getting the job done."

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