Succop closer to deal with Chiefs

Ryan Succop is a smart kicker.

The 22-year-old prefers to kick footballs through uprights, not himself.

The last player chosen in the NFL Draft said Thursday he’s close to signing a contract worth up to $1.2 million with the Kansas City Chiefs, but Succop hasn’t thought about spending a dime.

“That money is not guaranteed,” said Succop, clearly understanding nothing is when you’re the 256th player taken in last April’s draft. Plus, he’s a kicker. “You still have to make the team. If I’m fortunate to make it, I’m not planning to spend much of it.

“I’m not really a big spender. I save most of my money.”

Succop won’t have to worry about breaking out his wallet starting Sunday, when Mr. Irrelevant XXXIV arrives at John Wayne Airport.

His agent, Joel Turner, likely told him it would be this good.

Succop can, after all, leave his credit card at home. No one is going to ask for it during his time in Newport Beach, Huntington Beach and Disneyland.

Not having to pay for anything might also save him the embarrassment of hearing his last name — pronounced “suck-up” — should anyone thank him for buying something.

The kind folks at the Irrelevant Week headquarters are taking care of this kicker from the University of South Carolina. He can thank Paul Salata and his daughter, Melanie Salata-Fitch, the creator and leader, respectively, of Irrelevant Week.

Everything is going to be paid for by someone other than a Succop. The flight, food, drinks, housing, clothes, souvenirs, entertainment, you name it.

Succop said his girlfriend is flying in with his family to enjoy the week.

“It’s in the process of getting done,” Succop said of the three-year contract. “When it’s official, everyone will know how much I got.”