Creed Humphrey #52 of the Kansas City Chiefs laughs on the sidelines during the second quarter during the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Chicago Bears and Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on August 22, 2025
Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey recently received an unusual honor off the field. Rolling Hills Zoo in Salina, Kansas, announced that a newborn rhinoceros calf has been named after the Chiefs player. Zoo officials shared the name this week, saying Humphrey’s strength, toughness, and Midwest roots made him a fitting inspiration for the calf.
Zoo Names Baby Rhino After Chiefs Star Creed Humphrey
Rolling Hills Zoo welcomed the rhino calf earlier this year. The animal was born on February 8, but zoo officials waited several weeks before announcing the name.
According to KSN-TV, the zoo ultimately chose the name Creed in honor of Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey.
Rolling Hills Zoo executive director Ryan VanZant explained the decision in a press release announcing the name.
“Creed is a name that represents power, determination, and heart — qualities we see not only in this incredible calf, but also in his namesake,” VanZant said. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this connection and share his story with our community — especially with Chiefs Kingdom.”
The zoo said Humphrey’s reputation for toughness and consistency on the field helped inspire the choice. Officials also noted the connection between Humphrey’s Midwestern roots and the Kansas community.
White rhinoceroses are considered a threatened species, and conservation programs are an important focus for zoos working with the animals.
Kansas City’s All-Pro Center Reacts to Rhino Named in His Honor
Humphrey said he was excited about the unusual honor when the zoo approached him with the idea.
“When I was approached with the idea of Rolling Hills Zoo naming a new rhino calf after me, it seemed to be such a unique and amazing opportunity,” Humphrey said in the release.
The Chiefs center also highlighted the importance of conservation efforts involving white rhinos.
“With white rhinos being an endangered species, to be able to visit and interact with Creed the rhino was incredible,” Humphrey said. “I urge everyone to visit Rolling Hills Zoo because of their efforts in conservation and how interactive the entire zoo is.”
The naming announcement comes during a quieter stretch on the NFL calendar, between the free agency period and the upcoming NFL Draft.
Creed Humphrey Continues Strong Career With Kansas City Chiefs
Humphrey has established himself as one of the top centers in the NFL since entering the league.
The Chiefs selected Humphrey in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Since then, he has earned four consecutive Pro Bowl selections and helped Kansas City win two Super Bowls.
Humphrey signed a four-year, $72 million contract extension with Kansas City in August 2024, which made him the highest-paid center in the NFL at the time.
During the 2025 season, Humphrey logged 742 pass-blocking snaps, the second-most among NFL centers. He allowed just eight total pressures across the season, according to Pro Football Focus.
His performance earned him First Team All-Pro recognition and continued recognition as one of the league’s most reliable offensive linemen.
Humphrey has now been named an Associated Press All-Pro three times during his five NFL seasons.