Reigning Super Bowl Player is a Champion for Pets On and Off the Field

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Today, Kansas City Chiefs Defensive Tackle, Derrick Nnadi, unveiled his 2024 My Cause My Cleats design. For his fourth year participating in the initiative, Nnadi chose to support Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization working to end the killing of cats and dogs in America’s shelters in 2025.

Designed by artist Alex Katz, of Stadium Custom Kicks, the cleats pay homage to adoptable pets from Best Friends Animal Society including two dogs from the Best Friends Animal Society Sanctuary, Norberta and Virginia.  

The cleats will make their gameday debut on November 29 when the Chiefs take on the Las Vegas Raiders at home (3 p.m. EST on Amazon Prime). They will make a second appearance at Arrowhead Stadium on December 8 versus the L.A. Chargers (8:20 p.m. EST on NBC).

“I love Best Friends mission of trying to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s animal shelters,” said Derrick Nnadi, Defensive Tackle, Kansas City Chiefs. “When working with pets in shelters, I always think about what’s their situation, and how can we help them. Every dog can be a good dog, and every dog, and cat, deserves to find a loving home.”  

My Cause My Cleats is an NFL initiative that allows players to create and wear custom-designed cleats during designated weeks of the season. Players, coaches and staff then show their support for organizations that are meaningful to them.

“It's such a deep honor to have someone as talented as Derrick champion our goal of taking the country no-kill in 2025,” said Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society. “Derrick’s commitment to the animals shines through in his ongoing work in Kansas City and he is the perfect example of walking the walk for our Best Friends on and off the field.”

In addition to representing Best Friends Animal Society, one of Nnadi’s My Cause My Cleats shoes will support his foundation, the Derrick Nnadi Foundation.

“I’m fortunate to help a variety of people and pets through my foundation. Now, by adding Best Friends to the mix, I’m excited for the opportunity to positively impact the lives of even more dogs and cats.” said Nnadi.  

After the cleats are worn on December 8, they will be auctioned off with proceeds going to the Derrick Nnadi Foundation. The campaign will also raise awareness and give fans the chance to donate to Best Friends through the Rayze platform.

To learn more about Best Friends, visit bestfriends.org.  

To learn more about The Derrick Nnadi Foundation, visit dnnadifoundation.org.