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[Kansas City Chiefs]

NFL Power Rankings Week 15 Roundup: Chiefs bottom out with seventh loss

The Kansas City Chiefs’ latest loss felt like the nail in the coffin of this 2025 season. After the 20-10 defeat at the hands of the Houston Texans, the collective power rankings pushed the Chiefs down as far as possible for a team led by two-time MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Here’s this week’s sampling:

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NFL.com: 20​

(Down from 19)

Kansas City isn’t mathematically eliminated from the playoffs — yet — but Sunday felt like a funeral at Arrowhead, with the 20-10 loss to Houston officially ending the Chiefs’ streak of division titles at nine. Patrick Mahomes didn’t have anything close to a vintage game against a terrific Texans defense, but he also didn’t drop two catchable passes with a chance to tie or win the game in the fourth quarter. First came Rashee Rice’s brutal flub on fourth down, giving the ball back to the Texans. Then, after a great defensive stand, Travis Kelce’s bobble ended up as a game-killing Texans interception. There couldn’t have been a more cruel, painful knife twist than that ending — a surefire sign that this offense is broken, even if we’ve known it for a while. We’ve done various pre-eulogies, maybe even retracting a few along the way, but this feels like it. A shocking end to an incredible run.

— Eric Edholm

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ESPN: 16​

(No change)

Most shocking statistical ranking: Tied for second-most drops

Before the season, the Chiefs believed their collection of pass catchers was the best in quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ career. But following Sunday’s loss, the Chiefs have 24 dropped passes, according to ESPN Research. Tight end Travis Kelce had two drops Sunday night and has a league-leading eight drops this season. Also, Kelce has three drops that resulted in interceptions, tied for the most by any player in a single season in the past 10 years.

— Nate Taylor

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The Athletic: 20​

(Down from 17)

Worst-case scenario: It’s over

Not just over for this season (although that, too). The Chiefs’ chances of extending their playoff streak to 11 seasons fell to 16 percent with Sunday night’s loss, and perhaps worse, everyone on the offense looked old. Even the young guys. Rashee Rice dropped multiple passes. Travis Kelce bobbled one away to the Texans. Patrick Mahomes had three interceptions and a 19.8 passer rating. Kansas City has lost four of its last five.

— Josh Kendall

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Sports Illustrated: 18​

(Down from 13)

Tired: The Kansas City Chiefs’ dynasty is over

Wired: The Kansas City Chiefs should fire Andy Reid

Conor: I think Patrick Mahomes just had a really bad football game, played frustrated, passed up a handful of open reads and did all of this against the best defense in the NFL.

— Conor Orr

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Pro Football Talk: 19​

(Down from 18)

How bad would they be if they didn’t have Patrick Mahomes?

— Mike Florio

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CBSSports.com: 19​

(Down from 16)

Barring a miracle, they’ll miss the playoffs. That’s stunning to type. Patrick Mahomes watching the postseason doesn’t sound right.

— Pete Prisco

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Yahoo! Sports: 15​

(No change)

The overreaction to the Chiefs’ season will be fierce. People have been dying to dunk on the NFL’s current dynasty, and now is their chance. No, the Chiefs don’t need a full rebuild. They just haven’t won close games. Kansas City is still the No. 7 team in DVOA this season after Sunday’s loss, ahead of teams like Denver, Buffalo, Philadelphia and New England. Haters will get in their licks now. Level-headed people will understand it’s just an unlucky season for a team that’s still good.

— Frank Schwab

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The Sporting News: 19​

(Down from 17)

The Chiefs suffered a brutal, physically taxing loss to the Texans on Sunday night, summing up the woes of a shocking sub-.500 season for Patrick Mahomes, the entire offense and the defense.

— Vinnie Iyer

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USA Today: 16​

(Down from 15)

The last time they lost seven games? How about 2014 … which was also the last time they failed to qualify for the playoffs. Even if this dynasty wins out, it will still need significant help to reach Week 19.

— Nate Davis

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FOX Sports: 19​

(Down from 18)

The dynasty is over. They looked old, disinterested, and now they’ve lost four of their past five. They’re two games out of the last AFC playoff spot with four to go. … It is over, right? … Right???

— Ralph Vacchiano

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...eek-15-roundup-chiefs-drop-after-seventh-loss

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Analyzing Trent McDuffie’s hyperextension injury

The Kansas City Chiefs’ injury woes continued in the 20-10 loss to the Houston Texans in Week 14. In the first quarter, the Chiefs lost offensive tackle Wanya Morris, already filling in for a starter, and two-time All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie; both suffered knee injuries and remained sidelined for the rest of the evening.

In his post-game press conference, head coach Andy Reid revealed Morris suffered a lower leg injury while McDuffie suffered a hyperextension injury. The gruesome-looking injury suffered by Morris is as dire as it initially appeared, resulting in a season ending injury.

The timeline for McDuffie’s return is less certain. He was seen along the sidelines with a compression sleeve over the left knee, working on the stationary bike and jogging up and down the sidelines in an attempt to return. He was finally ruled out for the game at halftime.

Analyzing the injury​

A knee hyperextension injury occurs when the knee joint is forcefully bent backward. Several structures within the knee joint can be affected by this mechanism of injury. These structures include the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and posterolateral corner. Other injury possibilities include a bone bruise, muscle strain, or fracture. Based on special testing on the sideline, the initial presentation of the injury appears to be ligamentous in nature, rather than bony pathology.

The NBC telecast showed the Chiefs’ medical staff assessing the ligamentous structural integrity of McDuffie’s knee. Three ligamentous structures were shown being tested for laxity on the telecast, including the ACL, LCL, and MCL, via the Lachman, varus, and valgus stress tests, respectively.

#TrentMcDuffie @Chiefs
Sideline left knee ligament stability testing
Officially QUESTIONABLE
Seems unlikely to return pic.twitter.com/eEE15xskWK

— David J. Chao – ProFootballDoc (@ProFootballDoc) December 8, 2025

Seeing McDuffie attempting to stay warm on the sidelines, and make an attempt to play, we can safely assume he did not suffer a complete ligamentous tear. A ligamentous sprain still takes time to heal and could cause McDuffie to miss some time.

In the immediate aftermath of the injury, McDuffie will be dealing with and managing through rehab the following: joint swelling, pain, and instability. His availability for Kansas City will be reliant on the management of pain and inflammation in the coming days. His injury designation throughout the week should provide further clarity on the severity of McDuffie’s injury.

The bottom line​

The Chiefs find themselves in unfamiliar territory, given their current record and place in the AFC Playoff picture. In a season where it seems nothing is going right, the injuries are beginning to mount for a team that has stayed remarkably healthy overall in its dynastic run.

The knee injury suffered by McDuffie will make things challenging for the defense should he miss time or play through the injury. Presumably, rookie cornerback Nohl Williams will get more reps as the Chiefs strive to stay in the postseason race.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...alyzing-trent-mcduffies-hyperextension-injury

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Chargers Week 15 Wednesday injury report: 3 out, 2 back to work

Each practice day of the season, the Kansas City Chiefs release an official injury report leading up to the next game. In the NFL’s Week 15, the Chiefs host the Los Angeles Chargers on GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium at 12 p.m. (Arrowhead Time) on Sunday.

Here is the Chiefs’ first official injury report of the week:

Chiefs​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Hollywood Brown	WR	Personal	DNP	–	–	–
Jawaan Taylor	T	Triceps – Knee	DNP	–	–	–
Wanya Morris	OL	Knee	DNP	–	–	–
Trent McDuffie	CB	Knee	LP	–	–	–
Patrick Mahomes	QB	Knee	FP	–	–	–
Noah Gray	TE	Shoulder	FP	–	–	–
Nikko Remigio	WR	Concussion	FP	–	–	–
Rashee Rice	WR	Hamstring	FP	–	–	–
JuJu Smith-Schuster	WR	Rib	FP	–	–	–
Trey Smith	G	Ankle	FP	–	–	–
Bryan Cook	S	Ankle	FP	–	–	–

Chargers​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Keenan Allen	WR	Rest	DNP	–	–	–
Derius Davis	WR	Ankle	DNP	–	–	–
Trey Pipkins III	G/T	Ankle	DNP	–	–	–
Troy Dye	LB	Hip	DNP	–	–	–
Khalil Mack	OLB	Rest	DNP	–	–	–
Elijah Molden	DB	Hamstring	DNP	–	–	–
Justin Herbert	QB	Left Hand	LP	–	–	–
Will Dissly	TE	Shoulder	LP	–	–	–
Ladd McConkey	WR	Foot	LP	–	–	–

Some notes​

• For the Chiefs, two players who missed Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans were back at work as full participants on Wednesday: right guard Trey Smith (ankle) and wide receiver (and kick returner) Nikko Remigio (concussion).
• But right tackle Jawaan Taylor (triceps – knee) — who also missed Sunday’s game — did not participate on Wednesday. Also held out was swing tackle Wanya Morris (knee), who was injured on the first play of Sunday’s game while filling in for left tackle Josh Simmons.
• Starting cornerback Trent McDuffie (knee) was also injured on Sunday. He was a limited participant on Wednesday.
• Wide receiver Hollywood Brown (personal) was excused from Wednesday’s practice for personal reasons.
• The rest of the Kansas City players who were listed on the report were full participants. These included quarterback Patrick Mahomes (knee), who was favoring his knee during the Houston game.
• For the Chargers, starting quarterback Justin Herbert (left hand) was limited. He told reporters that he was given precautionary X-rays after playing against the Eagles on Monday night — and that there was no evidence of further damage to his broken hand. “Everything was clean for the most part,” he said. “It’s just getting the swelling down and continuing to get full strength in it and continuing to do as much treatment as I can.”
• Two other starters — starting right tackle Trey Pipkins III (ankle) and starting defensive back Elijah Molden (hamstring) — did not participate. They were joined by rotational linebacker Troy Dye (hip) and special teams wide receiver Derius Davis (ankle).
• Two veteran starters — wide receiver Keenan Allen and starting outside linebacker Khalil Mack — were held out for rest.
• Two other important contributors — starting wide receiver Ladd McConkey (foot) and rotational tight end Will Dissly (shoulder) — were limited on Wednesday.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-week-14-wednesday-injury-report-3-out-2-back

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

They know the odds are against them, but the Chiefs aren’t giving up

Despite online speculation that the Kansas City Chiefs’ season is effectively over, the team still has four games remaining — and remains mathematically alive in the playoff race. So even as they acknowledge the difficulty of the task before them — winning four straight games to close the season after losing four of their last five — players and coaches know what they have to do.

“They want to get to work,” head coach Andy Reid explained to reporters on Wednesday. “That’s how they’re wired. So they’re eager to get back on the field and get going.

“Everybody knows where we stand right now. They know what’s taken place — [and are] very aware. But they also like to work — so we’ll get back to it.”

“We understand we’ve got to win,” declared quarterback Patrick Mahomes. “That’s obvious. You’ve got to win the football game [with] whatever it takes. I mean, we say that every week — but obviously, [we’re] at that back-against-the-wall spot where you’re playing a team that you’re chasing that has a big lead in front of you, so you have to find a way to win. You have to have that mindset when you step on the football field.”

This is all unfamiliar territory for the team’s biggest star. As a starting quarterback, Mahomes has never failed to reach the AFC Championship. But Reid sees that his quarterback is continuing to handle the adversity.

“He’s great,” noted the coach. “He’s coming to work — and he keeps his head up at all times. [He] understands he’s in a leadership position — and he’s a good leader. [There’s] nothing you can do but try to get better. If you’re hanging your head, you’re not getting any better. [And you’re] surely not making anybody – including the whole team — [any] better.”

For Reid, getting the team out of its funk is about returning to the consistency that brought it the best record in franchise history in 2024.

“We’ve been up and down,” he observed, “so we need more consistency — and that’s what we’re striving to get here now. We’ve had some great days — [some] great plays — but you have to do it for four quarters in this business. We’ve got to be more consistent.”

For Mahomes, this starts with having great days at practice — and building from there.

“[It’s about] getting extra work in with the guys on the sideline — like I always do — and then when you’re in that practice you have conversations with guys and keep them in the right mindset,” he explained.

But he’s not doing it alone. Teammates like defensive tackle Chris Jones and tight end Travis Kelce predate his arrival — and Mahomes is relying on their perspective.

“We’re in an unprecedented territory,” he remarked. “Someplace that we haven’t been since I’ve been here. I think you lean on the guys [who] have battled through adversity and came out better on the other side. That’s Chris, Trav [and] all of these guys that have won championships.

“It hasn’t always been pretty, but [these games will] really test us to see what type of character we [have] — and I think we’ve got the guys in the room to do it.”

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...s-are-against-them-but-chiefs-arent-giving-up

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Chargers Week 15 Thursday injury report: 3 out, 1 downgraded

Each practice day of the season, the Kansas City Chiefs release an official injury report leading up to the next game. In the NFL’s Week 15, the Chiefs host the Los Angeles Chargers on GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium at 12 p.m. (Arrowhead Time) on Sunday.

Here is the Chiefs’ second official injury report of the week:

Chiefs​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Jawaan Taylor	T	Triceps – Knee	DNP	DNP	–	–
Wanya Morris	OL	Knee	DNP	DNP	–	–
Nick Bolton	LB	Illness	FP	DNP	–	–
Hollywood Brown	WR	Personal	DNP	LP	–	–
Trey Smith	G	Ankle	FP	LP	–	–
Trent McDuffie	CB	Knee	LP	LP	–	–
Patrick Mahomes	QB	Knee	FP	FP	–	–
Noah Gray	TE	Shoulder	FP	FP	–	–
Nikko Remigio	WR	Concussion	FP	FP	–	–
Rashee Rice	WR	Hamstring	FP	FP	–	–
JuJu Smith-Schuster	WR	Rib	FP	FP	–	–
Bryan Cook	S	Ankle	FP	FP	–	–

Chargers​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Derius Davis	WR	Ankle	DNP	DNP	–	–
Trey Pipkins	OT	Ankle	DNP	DNP	–	–
Troy Dye	LB	Hip	DNP	DNP	–	–
Elijah Molden	CB	Hamstring	DNP	DNP	–	–
Justin Herbert	QB	Left Hand	LP	LP	–	–
Ladd McConkey	WR	Foot	LP	LP	–	–
Will Dissly	TE	Shoulder	LP	FP	–	–
Keenan Allen	WR	Rest	DNP	FP	–	–
Khalil Mack	OLB	Rest	DNP	FP	–	–

Some notes​

• For the Chiefs, two players who missed Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans were back at work as full participants on Wednesday: right guard Trey Smith (ankle) and wide receiver (and kick returner) Nikko Remigio (concussion). But on Thursday, Smith was downgraded to limited participation. That’s not a good sign.
• After being excused on Wednesday, wide receiver Hollywood Brown was a limited participant on Thursday.
• Linebacker Nick Bolton was held out on Thursday because of a illness.
• Right tackle Jawaan Taylor (triceps – knee) once again did not participate on Thursday. Swing tackle Wanya Morris (knee) was also held out.
• Starting cornerback Trent McDuffie was once again a limited participant on Wednesday.
• For the Chargers, starting quarterback Justin Herbert (left hand) was again limited with his broken hand. He played with the injury in Monday’s game against the Eagles, but X-rays showed no additional damage.
• Starting wide receiver Ladd McConkey (foot) was also limited again on Thursday.
• Two other starters — starting right tackle Trey Pipkins III (ankle) and starting defensive back Elijah Molden (hamstring) — did not participate. They were joined by rotational linebacker Troy Dye (hip) and special teams wide receiver Derius Davis (ankle). All four were also held out on Wednesday.
• Two veteran starters — wide receiver Keenan Allen and starting outside linebacker Khalil Mack — were held out for rest on Monday. They were both full participants on Thursday.
• Rotational tight end Will Dissly (shoulder) — limited on Wednesday — was upgraded to full participation.

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For the Wednesday injury report, click here.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-15-thursday-injury-report-3-out-1-downgraded

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

The Chiefs’ coaches are ready to see more of rookie tackle Esa Pole

The Kansas City Chiefs’ much-maligned offensive performance in Sunday’s 20-10 loss to the Houston Texans might have been even worse if not for rookie tackle Esa Pole.

Pole — an undrafted free agent out of Washington State — stepped in at left tackle after Wanya Morris suffered what is believed to be a season-ending knee injury on the first play from scrimmage. It marked Pole’s first NFL action after a remarkably short football résumé; he didn’t play organized football until 2021, when he enrolled at Chabot College — a community school in Hayward, California.

Pole held his own against Texans pass rusher Danielle Hunter, who entered the game with 11 sacks on the season. Speaking Monday, head coach Andy Reid emphasized just how little preparation the rookie had.

“After the game,” Reid recalled, “I mentioned I was proud of him because he had no reps in practice for the most part — and then just a couple fill-in things. I thought he did a nice job for what he was asked to do. We just picked him back up here — and again, [he] had limited reps and jumps in. He’s a rookie. He jumps in and did some pretty good things against what I think is a pretty good football player.”

Pole’s services may be needed again Sunday. Starting right tackle Jawaan Taylor has missed the first two practices of the week with a triceps injury. Swing tackle Jaylon Moore will likely again fill in for Taylor, leaving Pole to man the left side.

Reid is eager to see Pole play again — but cautioned that the rookie’s second test comes with a familiar NFL wrinkle: opponents will now have tape of him.

“If you’re getting in there,” said Reid, “you’d better keep practicing and detailing your work. It’s important.”

Pole’s emergence has also reignited questions about why Kansas City released him at the end of training camp. He was claimed by the New York Jets before being waived again in October, then re-signed to the Chiefs’ practice squad. He returned to the active roster in Week 14, when rookie tackle Josh Simmons was placed on Reserve/Injured after his wrist surgery.

As is so often the case, waiving Pole was about numbers.

“We took him originally just because we thought he’d be a good player,” explained Reid. “You’ve got to juggle the numbers — which is always a challenge — and so he got poached there. When he got unpoached, we poached him. It was pretty simple, but we got him back here as quickly as we could.”

Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy echoed Reid’s perspective Thursday, noting that injuries sometimes create unexpected opportunities — even if the comparisons aren’t perfect.

“When an injury happens,” Nagy said, “you think of Tom Brady and just how that kind of happened at that point in time. That’s a much different example, but sometimes guys get an opportunity that maybe they wouldn’t have gotten for whatever reason.”

Nagy agreed with his boss that for Pole, the biggest tests will be in the coming weeks.

“When a guy like Esa steps up and does what he did in that moment after the very first play — I cannot begin to say how proud I am of him and what he did,” declared Nagy. “That’s great for him. That’s great for us. That’s important.

“You’re not always going to be spot-on with evaluations until players get real chances. He got a real chance — and now for him, what’s he going to do with it?”

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...s-ready-to-see-more-of-rookie-tackle-esa-pole

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

In Week 15’s ‘Reacts’ poll, some Chiefs’ fans do not seek the playoffs

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Each week, we send out questions to the most plugged-in Kansas City Chiefs fans. You can see all of the recent survey results here.

And be sure to check out FanDuel Sportsbook, the official sportsbook partner of SB Nation.

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Chiefs fans’ confidence​

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Clearly, Chiefs Kingdom is not okay with how the 2025 season has played out. This is the low point of fan confidence this year, dethroning the 18% mark registered after the loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 11.

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Is a playoff run worth it?​

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Just over half of Chiefs’ fans polled actually want to see the team finish the regular season strong and sneak into the postseason. For those who do not, an abnormally high pick in the 2026 NFL Draft must be appetizing.

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Who should protect the blind side?​

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Nearly three-fourths of Kansas City fans polled want the offensive line to remain as it was to finish Week 14: undrafted rookie Esa Pole at left tackle and Jaylon Moore manning right tackle.

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Click here to see other recent survey results.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/nfl-...ults-poll-some-chiefs-fans-dont-seek-playoffs

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Chargers: 5 things to watch in Week 15 contest

On Sunday, the (6-7) Kansas City Chiefs will take on the division rival (9-4) Los Angeles Chargers in an AFC West showdown on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium. The game will kick off at noon Arrowhead Time and will be broadcast on CBS — locally on KCTV5.

This game will be a rematch of the season opener, in which the Chargers won 27-21 in São Paulo, Brazil. Los Angeles has put together a strong season since, and is currently the top Wild Card team in the AFC playoff race. The Chiefs are on the outside looking in, and this season has been a major disappointment for the defending conference champions.

Temperatures at kickoff are expected to be frigid. Since 2010, the Chiefs are 5-3 against the Chargers in December at Arrowhead.

Here are five things to watch:

1. Continuing to evaluate Esa Pole​

Last week, left tackle Esa Pole made his NFL debut after Wanya Morris left the game early with a knee injury. Both Morris and right tackle Jawaan Taylor have been declared out for this game, so Pole is slated to start again.

This is a golden opportunity for the undrafted rookie — who turned in a solid performance in his debut — to continue to make a case for a roster spot in 2026. Morris is slated to be a free agent, while Taylor could be a cap casualty. So if he plays well enough, Pole has a chance to compete for a starting job or a shot at being the team’s new swing tackle.

Similar to the Houston Texans, Los Angeles has a solid pass rush featuring veteran outside linebacker Khalil Mack and rising star Tuli Tuipulotu off the edge. But unlike the Texans, the Chargers’ pass rush relies on power, which will give Pole a new set of obstacles to overcome. If he turns in another solid performance, it will be worth keeping him on the field through the end of the season.

2. Third downs​

Third downs will be critical this week. Los Angeles’ offense converts at a 47% rate, the third-highest in the NFL, while the Chiefs rank 13th at 40%. Defensively, the Chargers allow the fourth-lowest percentage of third-down conversions (34%), while Kansas City ranks 26th at 43%.

The Chiefs’ struggles to defend third down were apparent last week. The defense allowed eight conversions over 18 attempts against Houston — and the week prior, nine of 16 third downs against the Dallas Cowboys.

The Chiefs’ issues on third-down defense stem from the inability to create pressure in passing situations. That started in Week 1, when Los Angeles converted seven of 13 third downs.

The Chargers rank second in the NFL in time of possession per game, averaging 32:56 per game. Los Angeles excels at keeping teams off balance on early downs, while setting up manageable third downs where the powerful run game helps move the sticks.

This presents a layered problem for Kansas City’s defense that has been one of the least effective units under Chiefs’ defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

3. A low-scoring game​

This could be one of the lower-scoring games in the recent history of this rivalry. According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Over/Under is listed at only 41.5 points — and the very cold weather expected on Sunday could also be a factor.

Both teams rank among the top 10 in points allowed per game: Kansas City surrenders 19.4 points per game, while the Chargers allow 20.8 points per contest.

Each franchise ranks in the upper third of the league in points scored per game, but both have serious offensive line issues that could hinder the strategy. The Chiefs’ game plan in Week 14 was boosted by a backup-heavy offensive line, and Los Angeles has had its own struggles protecting quarterback Justin Herbert.

4. Bounce-backs for Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce​

To win this game, Kansas City needs bounce-back performances from its top two pass-catchers after a horrible game in Week 14. Rice caught only four catches for 34 yards, while Kelce had one catch for eight. Both players dropped passes at key times; one resulted in a turnover on downs, and the other ended as an interception.

It was an embarrassing effort by the two players who directly contributed to the loss. The Chiefs have a higher standard for both.

Neither player spoke to the media after the game; it appeared frustrations from this long season had boiled over. Leadership is desperately needed for this team right now, and it starts at the top. Anything can happen in the NFL, but if the Chiefs want to even imagine making the playoffs, then they need all-out efforts from Kelce and Rice on Sunday.

5. Getting after Justin Herbert​

Due to injuries on the Chargers’ offensive line, Herbert has been one of the most hit and pressured quarterbacks in the NFL this season. He is the third-most sacked quarterback — having taken 45 this year — and has taken the second most hits (61) on the season.

The beating has taken its toll, and Herbert is playing with a broken left hand, which has limited what the Chargers can do offensively. The Chiefs’ pass rush has struggled to generate pressure this season, but getting after Herbert will be a key to Sunday’s game.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kansas-city-chiefs-analysis/189167/5-things-to-watch-vs-chargers

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Let’s Argue: If Chiefs make the playoffs, they’ll win the whole thing

In our “Let’s Argue” series, Mark Gunnels weighs the hot takes, wacky predictions and unpopular opinions of Kansas City Chiefs fans from all over the world.

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If the Chiefs make the playoffs, they’re winning the Super Bowl​

If the Chiefs win out and somehow get into the playoffs, they’re winning the SB. We’ve seen this team struggle during the season then turn into a different team in the playoffs. I don’t know why they aren’t in playoff mode right now, but if they make it to the dance it’s over.

— Chief Daron (@MrNooner84) December 10, 2025

Talk about a hot take!

If the Chiefs somehow sneak into the playoffs, no opponent will be thrilled to see them show up on Wild Card Weekend.

A postseason berth would likely mean Kansas City enters January on a four-game winning streak — armed with a championship pedigree and hardened by weeks of playoff-type matchups.

Would they win the Super Bowl? I can’t go that far.

The Chiefs have won so much, they can’t lose without whining​

Chiefs Kingdom has won so many rings we forgot how to lose without whining. pic.twitter.com/oEveeqbBoJ

— Mr.Brownstone (@FFBallAppraiser) December 10, 2025

There’s a fine line between whining and constructive criticism — and based on what’s surfaced on social media, Chiefs fans seem to show a healthy mix of both.

Head coach Andy Reid has taken criticism — much of it deserved. From third-down decision-making to offensive structure, things have felt out of sync. No matter how this season ends, reinvention should be on the table.

Where this goes too far is the suggestion that Reid should be fired. One down year after five Super Bowl appearances and three championships wouldn’t come close to justifying that move.

That said, fresh ideas wouldn’t hurt. Continually hiring from the same coaching tree risks capping the offense’s growth.

There’s also a tendency among some fans to talk down to others, suggesting that disappointment equals entitlement — or that newer fans never endured the darker years.

While that may be true in some cases, I also believe expectations change. This isn’t the Matt Cassel era anymore. When Super Bowls become the standard, fans naturally expect more.

It’s better for the Chiefs to miss the postseason​

It’s better long term for the team to miss the playoffs. I don’t want there to be any illusion of the team is close or caught bad breaks. I want a wake up call that leads to long overdue necessary changes, especially on coaching staff and player acquisition philosophy

— SB Nation Feed (@sbng76) December 10, 2025

This mindset absolutely drives me insane.

When you have a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes, it’s always better to make the playoffs than not — especially in an AFC where the Denver Broncos and New England Patriots are the top two seeds.

I understand the logic behind missing the postseason for a higher draft pick or an organizational reset.

But if that needs to happen, it should happen whether the team makes the postseason or not. Even if Kansas City somehow won the Super Bowl, being under .500 this late in the season should never be acceptable.

The Chiefs will lose to Broncos and Chargers, finish 8–9​

@Chiefs will finish 8-9 beat raiders & titans lose to broncos + chargers

— NoJusticeInWorld (@IDKFMLWTF) December 10, 2025

Given the remaining schedule, this prediction isn’t outrageous.

Still, I don’t buy it. With both games at home, I believe the Chiefs will win out. I can’t see either the Chargers or Broncos completing a sweep.

I just can’t.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...if-team-makes-playoffs-it-will-win-super-bowl

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Chargers LIVE updates: Game tied 13-13 in the third quarter

The (6-7) Kansas City Chiefs arrive at their Week 15 home matchup against the (9-4) Los Angeles Chargers with zero room for error. For all practical purposes, a loss to the Chargers will make them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2014. Even with a win, Kansas City will almost certainly have to win the season’s three remaining games — and hope that some other games will fall the right way — to get into the postseason. Can the Chiefs avoid recording their fifth loss in six games — and do it against the team that beat them 27-21 in the season opener? That’s what we’re here to find out.

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First Quarter​

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Mahomes scrambles for early touchdown​

Kansas City methodically moved the ball on its opening possession, leaning on short throws to Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce while Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt handled the early rushing attempts. After the drive briefly stalled on a sack by Tuli Tuipulotu, Patrick Mahomes extended the series with his legs, stepping up through the pocket and breaking free up the middle before finishing the play himself with a 12-yard scramble into the end zone to give the Chiefs an early 7–0 lead.

Chargers grind into range for Dicker field goal​

Los Angeles put together a methodical response by leaning on the run game and short throws to move steadily across midfield. Justin Herbert hit Keenan Allen on a quick completion to flip the field, while O.J. Hampton and Kimani Vidal combined for a series of physical runs that kept the chains moving. Kansas City briefly stalled the drive with a third-down stop inside the 30, but Cameron Dicker converted from 49 yards to get the Chargers on the board and cut the Chiefs’ lead to 7–3. Linebacker Nick Bolton was shaken up while making a tackle during the drive.

Kansas City’s next possession stalled quickly. Patrick Mahomes opened the series with a short completion to Travis Kelce, but Isiah Pacheco was dropped for a loss on the following run to put the Chiefs behind the sticks. On third down, Mahomes tried to hit Xavier Worthy on a short throw to the left, but the pass fell incomplete, and Worthy was shaken up on the play, forcing the Chiefs into a punt after a brief three-and-out.

Los Angeles started the possession backed up near its own goal line, with Vidal ripping off a seven-yard run to create some breathing room before a penalty on Nohl Williams helped move the ball further out. The Chargers continued to lean on Vidal and O.J. Hampton to set up third down as the first quarter ended.

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Second quarter​

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Kansas City shut the drive down as the second began when Charles Omenihu beat his man for a sack of Justin Herbert. Linebacker Nick Bolton, who had briefly left the game earlier, was back on the field for the stop.

Kansas City failed to get anything going on the possession. Mahomes opened the series with an incomplete deep shot intended for Tyquan Thornton, then Pacheco followed with a short inside run for three yards. That left the Chiefs facing third down, and Tuipulotu won off the edge to sack Mahomes for a loss, forcing a punt.

Gillotte intercepts Herbert after pressure forces mistake​

Los Angeles opened the series with a short run that went nowhere and an incompletion to fall behind the chains. On third-and-long, Herbert tried to hit McConkey on a short throw to the right, but pressure arrived immediately, with Drue Tranquill and safety Mike Edwards blitzing and hitting Herbert as he threw. The contact caused the ball to float, and defensive end Ashton Gillotte, who had dropped into coverage, stepped in front of the pass and intercepted it at the Chargers’ 30 before returning it to the 19.

Chiefs settle for field goal after takeaway​

Given a short field after the interception, Kansas City leaned on the run game to work inside the Chargers’ 10, with Pacheco and Hunt grinding out tough yards to set up first-and-goal. The drive stalled near the goal line after Mahomes misfired on consecutive short throws, forcing the Chiefs to settle. Butker connected on a 27-yard field goal, pushing Kansas City’s lead to 10–3.

Los Angeles moved into Kansas City territory with a pair of short completions, including a checkdown to Vidal that picked up 15 yards, but the drive stalled near midfield. On fourth-and-one, Herbert’s short pass fell incomplete, and the Chiefs appeared to have a stop before it was wiped out by a neutral zone infraction on Jones. Given new life, the Chargers couldn’t take advantage. Watson dropped Herbert for a sack to push the offense backward, and Kansas City tightened coverage from there, forcing short gains and leaving Los Angeles unable to recover as the drive fizzled without points.

Butker extends lead late in the half​

Kansas City pieced together a late second-quarter drive with Mahomes spreading the ball around and using tempo to move into Chargers territory. Mahomes hit Xavier Worthy twice on quick throws along the sideline and found Rashee Rice over the middle to convert a third down near midfield, while a defensive too-many-men penalty helped keep the possession alive. The drive stalled just outside the red zone after an incompletion to Worthy on third down, but Harrison Butker stepped in and drilled a 47-yard field goal, extending the Chiefs’ lead to 13–3 before halftime.

Herbert strikes late as Chargers close the gap​

Los Angeles answered quickly before halftime, with Justin Herbert pushing the ball downfield after an early incompletion. Herbert connected with Tre Harris on a deep throw that flipped the field into Chiefs territory. After another short completion set up first-and-goal, Herbert went back to the air and found KeAndre Lambert-Smith in the end-zone for a 16-yard touchdown, trimming Kansas City’s lead to 13–10 heading into the break.

The first half ended with Cameron Dicker kicking off to open the third quarter, and Tyquan Thornton returned the ball 29 yards to the Chiefs’ 38

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Third quarter​

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Los Angeles opened the second half with a sustained drive that mixed short throws and inside runs, moving into Chiefs territory despite an early holding penalty that briefly set them back. Herbert hit Allen and McConkey to flip the field, then found Gadsden for a deep gain down to the Kansas City 4. The Chiefs’ defense tightened near the goal line, with Omenihu and Chenal combining for a sack at the 5 and Karlaftis stopping Hampton for a loss, but Dicker ultimately converted a 23-yard field goal to trim Kansas City’s lead to 10-6. The drive was costly on both sides, as Watson, Jones, Bolton and Knowles all briefly left the game with injuries, while Bolton later returned.

The Chiefs followed with a quick three-and-out, as Mahomes twice misfired on short throws intended for Rice before Odafe Oweh got home on third down, dropping Mahomes for a loss and forcing Kansas City to punt the ball right back to Los Angeles.

The Chargers picked up one first down on a short completion from Herbert to Gadsden, but the drive never gained momentum beyond that, as Vidal was limited on back-to-back runs and Herbert later threw incomplete on third down before a false start by Lambert-Smith wiped out the punt attempt and forced Los Angeles to try again, ending the possession without further damage.

Kansas City went three-and-out again, opening the possession with a pair of Isiah Pacheco runs that gained modest yardage before Patrick Mahomes threw incomplete to Rashee Rice on third down, a play that left Rice shaken up and stopped the drive before it could flip field position.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ers-live-score-updates-highlights-injury-news

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Headlines across the globe following Chiefs’ Week 15 loss to Chargers

After the Kansas City Chiefs lost their shot at the playoffs with a 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, Arrowhead Pride user Belohawks scoured the Internet for the most appropriate news headlines.

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Big Chill Hits Midwest​

Playoffs? “Fuggeddabouit”!

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Chiefs Can’t Figure Out Nuts and Bolts on How to Win​

Referees are nuts, and Bolts are rugged.

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GEHA Field: Giving Everyone Headaches Acrimoniously​

Home-field sanctuary desecrated.

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NFL Weakend 15 News​

Instability shakes Chiefs Kingdom, as super-star tears ACL.

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Nothing Special About Dave’s Teams​

Penalty-filled, ordinary and lacking.

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Herbert Effort​

Fractured hand and broken hearts

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Pole Slows Strippers’ Movements​

…but not enough to hide the naked truth.

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Maligned O-Line​

Oh my Godrick, it was rough!

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Minshew Madness​

Definition: throwing an interception in field-goal range AGAIN, and expecting different results.

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Punter Araizing​

Great execution, Inspired Change of Field

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Green Color a Welcomed Break From Romo​

Trent’s homecoming softens the reality of missing out.

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Current Things Greater Than Watching Football: Family, Friends, Health and the Draft(?!)​

Some fans are actually grateful for a long era of championships, extra games…and fun.

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans.../headlines-across-the-globe-following-week-15

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes successfully underwent surgery to repair ACL

The Kansas City Chiefs (and Chiefs Kingdom as a whole) spent Monday coming to terms with the reality that star quarterback Patrick Mahomes tore his ACL in Sunday’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.

Arrowhead Pride contributor Dakota Watson analyzed the injury for readers on Monday. He and many others stressed the importance of when the surgery actually happens.

As it turns out, the timeline is beginning right away.

Injury Update on QB Patrick Mahomes:

Patrick Mahomes successfully underwent surgery in Dallas this evening with Dr. Dan Cooper to repair the tear in his left ACL. Mahomes will begin his rehab process immediately.

— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) December 16, 2025

On Monday evening, the Chiefs confirmed that Mahomes had met with Dr. Dan Cooper — the head team physician for the Dallas Cowboys — and successfully underwent surgery; the team also confirmed the start of his rehabilitation.

Earlier that day, in his weekly Monday Zoom call, head coach Andy Reid shared with the media that Mahomes would be seeking a second opinion from Cooper after the team’s initial diagnosis following the game. Previously, Dr. Cooper performed the 2024 LCL repair of Chiefs’ wide receiver Rashee Rice.

ESPN’s Nate Taylor reported on Monday that — according to Reid — Mahomes did not suffer injury to other ligaments, and the team’s report only mentioned a successful surgery to repair his left ACL.

More context: Patrick Mahomes also tore his LCL, along with his ACL, sources say. While that can complicate recovery, it doesn’t necessary extend his rehab longer than 9 months or so. https://t.co/aap0zeHK5d

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 16, 2025

After the report of Mahomes’ surgery, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport confirmed that the quarterback also tore his LCL — although Rapoport added that it would not necessarily extend the recovery timeline.

We will provide continued updates on the quarterback’s recovery as more information becomes available.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans.../patrick-mahomes-underwent-acl-repair-surgery

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

NFL Power Rankings Week 16 Roundup: Chiefs sink to new low

When the regular season ends in just under three weeks, the Kansas City Chiefs will not be in the playoffs; the 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 15 cemented that fact. A cursed season somehow got worse and became a true disaster. The latest collection of power rankings across NFL media reflected that.

Here’s this week’s sampling:

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NFL.com: 20​

(No change)

In a shocking double blow, the Chiefs were officially eliminated from playoff contention and Patrick Mahomes suffered a season-ending torn ACL, which likely will affect his offseason outlook and timetable, as well. There might be a tangible argument that the Chiefs finding a way into this year’s playoffs could have given them a false sense of security in the system and that, as it’s been for most of the past decade, things are gonna be OK. I’m not going to buy that, and it’s hard to put a positive light on Mahomes’ injury. I also don’t think major offseason changes are guaranteed, but one way or another, the Chiefs must boost the pass rush, add some RB punch and figure out how best to get the most from this QB and these receivers.

— Eric Edholm

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ESPN: 18​

(Down from 16)

Extension candidate: Cornerback Jaylen Watson

A former seventh-round pick, Watson has been an above-average defender for the Chiefs and is on the final year of his rookie deal. He has started every game this season, playing a career-high 809 snaps (97% of the defense). In coverage, he has yet to surrender a touchdown, recording two interceptions and six pass breakups. By retaining Watson, the Chiefs can still keep the quality duo at cornerback with McDuffie, a two-time All-Pro cornerback, on the opposite side. — Nate Taylor

— Nate Taylor

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The Athletic: 20​

(Down from 17)

Worst-case scenario: It’s over

Not just over for this season (although that, too). The Chiefs’ chances of extending their playoff streak to 11 seasons fell to 16 percent with Sunday night’s loss, and perhaps worse, everyone on the offense looked old. Even the young guys. Rashee Rice dropped multiple passes. Travis Kelce bobbled one away to the Texans. Patrick Mahomes had three interceptions and a 19.8 passer rating. Kansas City has lost four of its last five.

— Josh Kendall

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Sports Illustrated: 23​

(Down from 18)

Column on the potential of a Patrick Mahomes gap in time, and why, for a person so immersed in the pursuit of greatness, this could be a blessing in disguise.

— Conor Orr

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Pro Football Talk: 21​

(Down from 19)

Yes, there can be worse days than being blown out in the Super Bowl.

— Mike Florio

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CBSSports.com: 21​

(Down from 19)

It’s over. The playoffs are out, Patrick Mahomes is lost with a torn ACL, and the future is now in question. Is the dynasty over?

— Pete Prisco

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Yahoo! Sports: 16​

(Down from 15)

It was reasonable to think that the Chiefs could have rebounded right away next season and continued their dynasty. One bad season with many close losses wasn’t the death of the Chiefs, regardless of how everyone proclaimed it so. But Patrick Mahomes’ torn ACL changes the math. We don’t know how Mahomes will rebound from that injury, especially since he suffered it so late in the season. The Chiefs aren’t in as bad of shape as you might hear, but now it all centers on Mahomes’ recovery.

— Frank Schwab

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The Sporting News: 21​

(Down from 19)

The Chiefs are seeing all their issues from the past two seasons all come together to trip them up at the wrong time. Now the only concern is getting Patrick Mahomes back on the field to start next season.

— Vinnie Iyer

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USA Today: 21​

(Down from 16)

They’re shockingly in their Gardner Minshew Era … which may determine whether they want to go back to their Carson Wentz Era in 2026.

— Nate Davis

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FOX Sports: 21​

(Down from 21)

It’s over! For real, this time. The Chiefs are out of the playoffs for the first time since 2014. And now Patrick Mahomes has to rehab a torn ACL so they can try to regroup next year.

— Ralph Vacchiano

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...nkings-week-16-roundup-chiefs-sink-to-new-low

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs replace Mike Edwards and C.J. Hanson on their practice squad

According to the official NFL transactions report, the Kansas City Chiefs have signed two players to their practice squad: safety Tanner McCalister and guard Nick Broeker. The two players take the places of safety Mike Edwards and guard C.J. Hanson — both of whom were recently activated to the team’s 53-man roster.

That brings the practice squad to the Chiefs’ full complement of 17. (The team is permitted an extra spot because offensive lineman Chu Godrick is an International Pathways Program player).

The two players were among 10 who were reported to have worked out with the team on Monday: six defensive backs (including McCalister), two linebackers, a running back and Broeker.

Both players are 25, having joined the league in 2023. The 5-foot-11, 195-pound McCalister was an undrafted free agent out of Ohio State for the Cleveland Browns, while Broeker — checking in at 6 feet 4 and 305 pounds — was a seventh-round pick (23oth overall) for the Buffalo Bills out of Mississippi.

Both have been with multiple practice squads (or offseason rosters) and have collected a handful of NFL game appearances. McCalister (who has been assigned jersey No. 44 with the Chiefs) was in three games for the Browns in 2023 and three more with the Denver Broncos in 2024 — but spent the 2025 offseason with the New York Jets. Broeker — who will wear No. 67 in Kansas City — didn’t make the Buffalo roster as a rookie, but appeared in a total of a dozen games with the Houston Texans in 2023 and 2024 before ending up back on the Bills’ practice squad this season. They released him a week ago.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...edwards-c-j-hanson-replaced-on-practice-squad

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

AP Mailbag: What’s on the Chiefs’ Christmas wish list?

Welcome back to the Arrowhead Pride Mailbag! Each week, watch for your opportunity to submit your Kansas City Chiefs questions in The Feed, which is found on AP’s home page.

After a soul-crushing 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, questions now extend well beyond the final score — including when quarterback Patrick Mahomes might take the field again. Let’s see what’s on our readers’ minds.

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Ed Helinski asks (via X)​

What should Santa be bringing the Chiefs for Christmas?

Even before this week’s devastating injury news, the Chiefs had largely created their own bad luck: receiver drops, penalties, predictable coaching decisions, uninspiring personnel moves and repeated third-and-long defensive collapses. Taken together, that résumé probably lands them squarely on the naughty list — and they’ve already received plenty of coal.

The club already received its most important late-season gift: a successful ACL repair surgery for Mahomes, a development that at least keeps the door open for a Week 1 return. If Santa remains generous, the next request would be simple: no more serious injuries after a Sunday in which nearly every drive seemed to end with someone needing medical attention.

On the field — with three glorified exhibitions remaining — continued progress from rookie defensive end Ashton Gillotte would make for a nice stocking stuffer. Strong performances from any young players earning expanded roles down the stretch would also qualify as small wins while waiting out the season.

It’s unclear how serious the knee injury to tackle Jaylon Moore is, but it would be ideal if Kansas City could get a larger sample of him at right tackle. The other four offensive line spots appear spoken for in 2026. With $7 million in guaranteed salary next season, Moore likely isn’t going anywhere — and probably gets the first look at the job — but additional reps on the right side would be valuable.

Off the field, the team’s impending financial squeeze is probably being overstated for dramatic effect. Still, general manager Brett Veach would happily unwrap a larger-than-expected salary-cap increase for 2026.

Another nice gift would be a deep quarterback class in the 2026 NFL Draft. It would be great if as many top college passers as possible — such as Oregon’s Dante Moore — enter the draft, therefore nudging other blue-chip talent down toward Kansas City’s eventual draft position.

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KyleAtGalaxy asks​

If tight end Travis Kelce does decide to retire after the season, would it be possible for him to come back for a 2026 playoff run?

I still suspect that early in the offseason, we will know whether Kelce plans to return or retire — but it’s also possible that he may want to wait for more definitive updates on Mahomes’ rehab before making his decision. Even in a best-case scenario, Mahomes is likely to miss much of training camp — which could make the Chiefs more aggressive than usual in selling their most familiar receiving target on another season.

Kelce’s contract expires after the season, meaning he would be free to sign with any team at any point. Most players who retire still have time remaining on their deals and are placed on the Reserve/Retired list, which carries restrictions on late-season activation — something the Detroit Lions encountered last month when center Frank Ragnow attempted a late return, failed his physical and became ineligible for 2025.

As a free agent, Kelce wouldn’t be bound by those rules. The more relevant question is whether he would retire into a lifestyle that realistically allows for a late-career return.

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TheDr.K asks (via X)​

Are the chiefs going to shut down wide receiver Xavier Worthy so he can get shoulder surgery?

After so many key players required treatment on Sunday, Wednesday’s first injury report will be interesting. The quick turnaround — from a road game against the Tennessee Titans to hosting the physical Denver Broncos on Thursday — should push the Chiefs toward a conservative approach this week.

While Worthy’s second season has been underwhelming, his toughness hasn’t been in question; he’s played through a torn labrum and a recurring ankle injury. There’s little reason to keep pushing him at this stage. While I’m not a doctor, getting the shoulder surgery now — and maximizing his chances of being ready for camp — seems like the prudent move.

Defensive tackle Chris Jones was also seen receiving hamstring treatment Sunday, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he doesn’t play again this year. Similarly, with the season effectively lost, there’s no reason to rush cornerback Trent McDuffie or guard Trey Smith back from their injuries.

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Steve Soper asks​

What are the odds head coach Andy Reid walks away now — thereby avoiding going through a rebuild — rather than facing the inevitable parting of the ways at the end of next year?

At 67, Reid has long been enigmatic when asked about his future — and there’s little reason to expect that to change. Fans and media likely spend far more time considering how Reid might go out on top than he does.

On Monday, Reid used the word “retool” when addressing the media and made a cryptic reference to “whoever is still here” after the final three games. While it’s doubtful he has made any firm decisions about next season, that doesn’t sound like someone who is preparing to walk away. Recent press appearances also suggest he understands there must be changes on both the coaching staff and the roster.

I get the impression that Reid simply enjoys coaching — whether it’s in good times or bad times. So whether that involves leading a prohibitive Super Bowl favorite or facing the challenge by planning an offseason around an injured quarterback shouldn’t affect his desire to coach the Kansas City Chiefs.

If Reid does eventually decide to step away on his own terms, history suggests it will come with little warning.

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Thank you for reading this week’s Arrowhead Pride Mailbag! Keep watching The Feed for a chance to ask your questions.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...9728/mailbag-whats-on-the-christmas-wish-list

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Titans Week 16 Wednesday injury report: 6 held out of practice

Each practice day of the season, the Kansas City Chiefs release an official injury report leading up to the next game. In the NFL’s Week 16, Kansas City is on the road to play the Tennessee Titans in Nashville, with kickoff at 12 p.m. Arrowhead Time on Sunday.

Here is the Chiefs’ first official injury report of the week:

Chiefs​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Rashee Rice	WR	Concussion	DNP	–	–	–
Tyquan Thornton	WR	Concussion	DNP	–	–	–
Jaylon Moore	T	Knee	DNP	–	–	–
Jawaan Taylor	T	Elbow	DNP	–	–	–
Leo Chenal	LB	Shoulder	DNP	–	–	–
Trent McDuffie	CB	Knee	DNP	–	–	–
Chris Jones	DL	Hamstring	LP	–	–	–
Jake Briningstool	TE	Hamstring	FP	–	–	–
Noah Gray	TE	Shoulder	FP	–	–	–
Hollywood Brown	WR	Personal	FP	–	–	–
Nikko Remigio	WR	Knee	FP	–	–	–
JuJu Smith-Schuster	WR	Rib	FP	–	–	–
Trey Smith	G	Ankle	FP	–	–	–
Kristian Fulton	CB	Knee	FP	–	–	–
Nazeeh Johnson	CB	Shoulder	FP	–	–	–
Bryan Cook	S	Shoulder	FP	–	–	–
Mike Edwards	S	Shoulder	FP	–	–	–

Titans​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Van Jefferson	WR	Back	DNP	–	–	–
Cedric Gray	LB	Concussion	DNP	–	–	–
Amani Hooker	S	Illness	DNP	–	–	–
Kevin Winston Jr.	S	Groin	DNP	–	–	–
Gunnar Helm	TE	Toe	LP	–	–	–
Chig Okonkwo	TE	Rest	LP	–	–	–
Bryce Oliver	WR	Knee	LP	–	–	–
Jeffery Simmons	DT	Rest	LP	–	–	–
Ali Gaye	OLB	Knee	LP	–	–	–
Oluwafemi Oladejo	OLB	Fibula	LP	–	–	–
Jalyn Armour-Davis	CB	Achilles	LP	–	–	–
Dan Moore Jr.	T	Neck	FP	–	–	–

Some notes​

• For the Chiefs, quarterback Patrick Mahomes (torn ACL) was not listed on the injury report, because the team placed him on the Reserve/Injured list before practice. That officially ends Mahomes‘ season. At the same time, the team said that tight end Jake Briningstool (hamstring) and cornerback Nazeeh Johnson (shoulder) were designated for return from Reserve/Injured, making them available to practice with the team — and opening the possibility that they could be activated to the roster before any of the next three games. Both were full participants in practice.
• Wide receivers Rashee Rice and Tyquan Thornton did not participate in Wednesday’s practice. Both are now in the NFL’s concussion protocol.
• In his Wednesday media availability, head coach Andy Reid said that Rice turned up with the concussion on Monday — but he obviously took several hard hits from the Los Angeles Chargers’ defense during Sunday’s 16-13 loss. So did Thornton. “We’ll just see how that rolls time-wise for the game,” said Reid of Thornton’s situation — but he’d probably say the same thing about Rice, too.
• Two of the team’s tackles — swing tackle Jaylon Moore (knee) and right tackle Jawaan Taylor (elbow) — also did not participate. Reid said that the team is “playing it by ear” with Moore’s hyperextended knee, but it is getting better. He noted that Taylor’s injury is also improving, but “not as fast as he wants it.”
• Two defenders did not participate on Wednesday: linebacker Leo Chenal (shoulder) and cornerback Trent McDuffie (knee).
• Star defensive tackle Chris Jones (hamstring) was a limited participant on Wednesday.
• Eight other Kansas City players are on Wednesday’s report with a variety of injuries, but were full participants in practice. Among them was wide receiver Hollywood Brown, who missed two of last week’s practices (and Sunday’s game) for personal reasons.
• For the Titans, four starters were held out of Wednesday’s practice: wide receiver Van Jefferson (back), linebacker Cedric Gray (concussion), safety Amani Hooker (illness) and rookie safety Kevin Winston Jr. (groin).
• Two other starters — star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and tight end Chig Okonkwo — were given some rest as limited participants.
• Starting tight end Gunnar Helm (toe) was also limited. So was starting cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis (achilles) who is working his way back after being injured in Week 12.
• Three other players — wide receiver Bryce Oliver (knee), outside linebacker Ali Gaye (knee) and outside linebacker Oluwafemi Oladejo (fibula) — were all designated for return from Reserve/Injured on Wednesday. They were limited in their first practice.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ednesday-injury-report-6-held-out-of-practice

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

3 big questions about Chiefs’ players ahead of matchup with Titans

Now that the Kansas City Chiefs’ postseason chances are finished and quarterback Patrick Mahomes is out, the next three weeks are about identifying players who might help in the future. There is going to be plenty of roster turnover this offseason, so it’s important to get strong evaluations on anyone under contract into 2026.

With that in mind, here are three questions I have about some of the Chiefs’ young players over the next three weeks:

1. Can the Chiefs find a role for Brashard Smith?​

All season, we’ve anticipated rookie running back Brashard Smith’s breakout, but it hasn’t happened. The Chiefs have not found a consistent role that suits his skillset in the run game, and he has made little impact on pass plays. Kansas City is still looking for someone to fill a role similar to that of former Chiefs’ running back Jerick McKinnon.

Smith could develop into that player, but he needs an opportunity to do so, and the final three weeks are the perfect time. There’s no reason to give starting running backs Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco all of the carries. Both will be unrestricted free agents this offseason and could be elsewhere in 2026. It would be more advantageous to see what Smith has to offer for the future of the Chiefs’ running back room.

Moving forward, the rookie back should see a variety of run concepts called for him to see what sticks. He should also be featured in the pass game; the play calling should dial up a few screens for him, anything to get the ball in his hands.

2. Can Ashton Gillotte be a consistent pass-rush presence?​

Kansas City’s defensive line has struggled to make an impact over the past two years. The depth beyond George Karlaftis and Chris Jones isn’t adequate. Defensive ends Charles Omenihu and Mike Danna have both dropped off significantly since their peak performances in 2023. Last offseason, defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton signed elsewhere in free agency, and the Chiefs were unable to replace his production in 2025. Former first-round pick, defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah, was out before his third season even began with an injury.

The solutions were supposed to be two rookies: defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott and defensive end Ashton Gillotte, who were taken within the top 75 picks. The duo was unable to contribute much this season: Norman-Lott tore his ACL early in the year, and Gillotte hasn’t done much in limited playing time, but his snap count is steadily increasing and he is coming off his best game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

The Chiefs need to overhaul most of the defensive line this offseason. Gillotte could use these next three games as an audition for next year.

Gillotte should play starter-level snaps over the next three weeks. He has a couple of things he needs to work on before next year. First, he’ll have to prove he’s a capable run defender despite having short arms and not being a heavier player. Second, and most importantly, he needs to give the Chiefs some pass-rush juice. Gillotte has had moments of explosiveness this year, but he needs to be more consistent.

Gillotte has two favorable matchups going forward: the Tennessee Titans and the Las Vegas Raiders. I would hope he looks flashes against struggling offensive tackles. If he doesn’t, it will limit optimism in his development going into next season.

3. Can Esa Pole earn a role in the Chiefs’ offensive line plans in 2026?​

Undrafted rookie offensive tackle Esa Pole was impressive in his first game against the Houston Texans, but last week was more of a roller coaster. He struggled to keep the edge sealed against edge rushers Odafe Oweh and Tuli Tuipolotu. Pole is still a young player, and those guys are agile, so it was a tough matchup.

Over his last three games, I want to see how consistent he can play. Can he look like a potential starter next year? Is he the swing tackle for this team if they cut right tackle Jawaan Taylor? Or, does Pole struggle, and the Chiefs seek out external help at tackle?

If the Chiefs move on from Taylor, tackle depth will be necessary. As we’ve seen over the past few years, the Chiefs need as many quality offensive linemen as possible. Even if Pole proves to be a capable backup, that’s a great find by the front office.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans.../3-big-questions-about-chiefs-players-week-16

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Titans Week 16 Thursday injury report: 1 upgraded, 1 added

Each practice day of the season, the Kansas City Chiefs release an official injury report leading up to the next game. In the NFL’s Week 16, Kansas City is on the road to play the Tennessee Titans in Nashville, with kickoff at 12 p.m. Arrowhead Time on Sunday.

Here is the Chiefs’ second official injury report of the week:

Chiefs​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Rashee Rice	WR	Concussion	DNP	DNP	–	–
Tyquan Thornton	WR	Concussion	DNP	DNP	–	–
Jaylon Moore	T	Knee	DNP	DNP	–	–
Jawaan Taylor	T	Elbow	DNP	DNP	–	–
Derrick Nnadi	DT	Illness	FP	DNP	–	–
Leo Chenal	LB	Shoulder	DNP	DNP	–	–
Chris Jones	DL	Hamstring	LP	LP	–	–
Trent McDuffie	CB	Knee	DNP	LP	–	–
Jake Briningstool	TE	Hamstring	FP	FP	–	–
Noah Gray	TE	Shoulder	FP	FP	–	–
Hollywood Brown	WR	Personal	FP	FP	–	–
Nikko Remigio	WR	Knee	FP	FP	–	–
JuJu Smith-Schuster	WR	Rib	FP	FP	–	–
Trey Smith	G	Ankle	FP	FP	–	–
Kristian Fulton	CB	Knee	FP	FP	–	–
Nazeeh Johnson	CB	Shoulder	FP	FP	–	–
Bryan Cook	S	Shoulder	FP	FP	–	–
Mike Edwards	S	Shoulder	FP	FP	–	–

Titans​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Cedric Gray	LB	Concussion	DNP	DNP	–	–
Amani Hooker	S	Illness	DNP	DNP	–	–
Gunnar Helm	TE	Toe	LP	LP	–	–
Van Jefferson	WR	Back	DNP	LP	–	–
Bryce Oliver	WR	Knee	LP	LP	–	–
Kevin Zeitler	G	Groin	DNP	LP	–	–
Ali Gaye	OLB	Knee	LP	LP	–	–
Oluwafemi Oladejo	OLB	Fibula	LP	LP	–	–
Jalyn Armour-Davis	CB	Achillies	LP	LP	–	–
Chig Okonkwo	TE	Rest	LP	FP	–	–
Dan Moore Jr.	T	Neck	FP	FP	–	–
Jeffery Simmons	DT	Rest	LP	FP	–	–

Some notes​

• One player was added to Thursday’s report: defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, who has held out due to illness.
• Two defenders did not participate on Wednesday: linebacker Leo Chenal (shoulder) and cornerback Trent McDuffie (knee). But McDuffie was upgraded to limited participation on Thursday.
• On Wednesday, tight end Jake Briningstool (hamstring) and cornerback Nazeeh Johnson (shoulder) were designated for return from Reserve/Injured, making them available to practice with the team — and opening the possibility that they could be activated to the roster before any of the next three games. Both have been full participants on both days.
• Wide receivers Rashee Rice and Tyquan Thornton did not participate for another day. Both are in the NFL’s concussion protocol.
• Swing tackle Jaylon Moore (knee) and right tackle Jawaan Taylor (elbow) — did not participate for a second day.
• Defensive tackle Chris Jones (hamstring) was once again a limited participant on Thursday.
• For the Titans, four starters were held out of Wednesday’s practice: linebacker Cedric Gray (concussion), safety Amani Hooker (illness), wide receiver Van Jefferson (back) and guard Kevin Zeitler (groin). On Thursday, Jefferson and Zeitler was upgraded to limited, while the others missed a second practice.
• On Wednesday, two other starters — defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and tight end Chig Okonkwo — were given some rest as limited participants. Both were upgraded to full participation on Thursday.
• Two other starters — tight end Gunnar Helm (toe) and cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis (achilles) — were limited for another day.
• Three other players — wide receiver Bryce Oliver (knee), outside linebacker Ali Gaye (knee) and outside linebacker Oluwafemi Oladejo (fibula) — were all designated for return from Reserve/Injured on Wednesday. They were limited again on Thursday.

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For the Wednesday injury report, click here.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-16-thursday-injury-report-1-upgraded-1-added

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Madden Simulation: Minshew Mania

On Sunday, the (6-8) Kansas City Chiefs are on the road to take on the (2-12) Tennessee Titans. Let’s see how the game plays out in Madden NFL 26.

STOP!​

If you want to watch the simulation without spoilers, start this video — or if you can’t see it, click here.

First quarter​

On the first play of the game, the Titans set the tone against the Chiefs, getting to quarterback Gardner Minshew as Darrell Baker Jr. brings him down for a seven-yard loss. The Chiefs go three-and-out on their opening possession.

The Titans pick up one first down on their ensuing drive before being forced to punt the ball back to Kansas City.

Minshew responds by hitting Travis Kelce for a first down, then picks up another with his legs to move the Chiefs to midfield. Titans pass rusher Arden Key breaks through the line and drops Minshew for a nine-yard loss. Kansas City answers right back, as Xavier Worthy hauls in back-to-back first-down receptions — one for 14 yards and the next for 15 — quickly putting the Chiefs inside the Titans’ 20-yard line.

Tennessee’s defense stiffens in the red zone, as Anfernee Orji comes up with a sack on third down to push the Chiefs backward and force a tough decision.

End of first quarter: Chiefs 0, Titans 0

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Second quarter​

Harrison Butker opens the quarter by drilling a 33-yard field goal.

The Titans answer with some momentum, as Tony Pollard picks up a first down with his legs and Cam Ward connects with Chig Okonkwo to move the chains. The Chiefs’ defense buckles down, forcing a punt — highlighted by Jaden Hicks bringing down Ward for a nine-yard loss.

The Chiefs’ offense begins to find a rhythm on the ensuing drive, stringing together multiple first downs. A 22-yard catch-and-run by Hollywood Brown sparks the march, and Kansas City quickly moves to the Titans’ nine-yard line as the two-minute warning arrives. Minshew leans on his mobility, scrambling for a first down and sliding to the five-yard line. Later in the drive, Minshew fires a pass to Xavier Worthy on a slant in the back of the end zone for the touchdown.

Tennessee responds before halftime, stealing three points on a successful field goal by Joey Slye.

The Chiefs aren’t finished. On the final play of the half, Minshew takes a deep shot downfield and draws a defensive pass-interference penalty. With no time remaining, Butker capitalizes on the free play, sneaking in another field goal to close the half.

End of second quarter: Chiefs 13, Titans 3

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Third quarter​

The Titans’ opening drive ends with a punt by Johnny Hekker.

Kansas City wastes no time taking advantage. Isiah Pacheco rips off a 31-yard run to move the Chiefs to the Titans’ 15-yard line. Minshew follows with a 13-yard scramble for a first down, and three plays later lofts a pass to Worthy for his second touchdown of the game.

The Chiefs’ defense piles on moments later. Cornerback Trent McDuffie jumps a pass from Cam Ward, picks it off and takes it all the way back to the house for a touchdown.

End of third quarter: Chiefs 27, Titans 3

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Fourth quarter​

Facing fourth-and-10 deep in Chiefs territory, the Titans need a play — and Ward delivers. He hits Chimere Dike on a post route, and Dike secures the catch, fights through contact, and powers his way into the end zone for the touchdown. Tennessee stays aggressive, lining up for the two-point conversion, and Ward connects with Chig Okonkwo on the out route.

The Chiefs’ offense can’t respond, going three-and-out on the ensuing drive.

Tennessee strikes again in a hurry. Needing just two plays to cover 80 yards, Ward leans entirely on Okonkwo, who does all the damage on the drive and caps it with another touchdown. The Titans go for two once more, but this time the attempt comes up short.

Kansas City finally steadies things late. Pacheco bursts through the line for a 25-yard run to midfield, followed by a first-down completion to Kelce. The drive stalls, but Harrison Butker steps in and knocks through the field goal to push the Chiefs’ lead back to 13.

Final score: Chiefs 30, Titans 17

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Notable stats​

• Gardner Minshew: 18 for 25 passing, 206 yards, 2 touchdowns, 7 carries, 34 yards
• Cam Ward: 15 for 30 passing, 270 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception
• Isiah Pacheco: 9 carries, 88 yards
• Tony Pollard: 11 carries, 55 yards
• Xavier Worthy: 5 receptions, 51 yards, 2 touchdowns
• Travis Kelce: 5 receptions, 52 yards
• Hollywood Brown: 4 receptions, 70 yards
• Elic Ayomanor: 5 receptions, 100 yards
• Chimere Dike: 3 receptions, 71 yards
• Chig Okonkwo: 3 receptions, 87 yards, 1 touchdown
• Charles Omenihu: 2 solo, 1 tackle for loss, 1 sack
• Jaden Hicks: 9 total (2 solo), 2 tackles for loss, 1 sack

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In Week 17, the Chiefs will be back home on Christmas night, taking on the Denver Broncos — and we’ll give you a preview from the EA Universe!

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/madden-nfl/190024/madden-simulation-minshew-mania

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Titans Week 16 Friday injury report: 7 players out, 2 back

Each practice day of the season, the Kansas City Chiefs release an official injury report leading up to the next game. In the NFL’s Week 16, Kansas City is on the road to play the Tennessee Titans in Nashville, with kickoff at 12 p.m. Arrowhead Time on Sunday.

Here is the Chiefs’ final official injury report of the week, including game designations:

Chiefs​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Rashee Rice	WR	Concussion	DNP	DNP	DNP	OUT
Tyquan Thornton	WR	Concussion	DNP	DNP	DNP	OUT
Jawaan Taylor	T	Elbow	DNP	DNP	DNP	OUT
Jaylon Moore	OL	Knee	DNP	DNP	DNP	OUT
Derrick Nnadi	DT	Illness	–	DNP	DNP	OUT
Leo Chenal	LB	Shoulder	DNP	DNP	DNP	OUT
Trent McDuffie	CB	Knee	DNP	LP	DNP	OUT
Jake Briningstool	TE	Hamstring	FP	FP	FP	OUT
Nazeeh Johnson	S	Shoulder	FP	FP	FP	OUT
Noah Gray	TE	Shoulder	FP	FP	–	–
Marquise Brown	WR	Personal	FP	FP	FP	–
Nikko Remigio	WR	Knee	FP	FP	FP	–
JuJu Smith-Schuster	WR	Rib	FP	FP	FP	–
Trey Smith	G	Ankle	FP	FP	–	–
Chris Jones	DT	Hamstring	LP	LP	FP	–
Kristian Fulton	CB	Knee	FP	FP	FP	–
Bryan Cook	S	Shoulder	FP	FP	–	–
Mike Edwards	S	Shoulder	FP	FP	–	–

Titans​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Bryce Oliver	WR	Knee	LP	LP	LP	OUT
Cedric Gray	LB	Concussion	DNP	DNP	LP	OUT
Oluwafemi Oladejo	LB	Fibula	LP	LP	OUT	OUT
Arden Key	LB	Illness `	FP	FP	DNP	QUEST
Kevin Zeitler	G	Groin	DNP	LP	LP	QUEST
Jalyn Armour-Davis	CB	Achillies	LP	LP	LP	QUEST
Gunnar Helm	TE	Toe	LP	LP	FP	QUEST
Van Jefferson	WR	Back	DNP	LP	FP	QUEST
Ali Gaye	LB	Knee	LP	LP	LP	–
Chig Okonkwo	TE	Rest	LP	FP	FP	–
Dan Moore Jr.	OT	Neck	FP	FP	FP	–
Jeffery Simmons	DT	Rest	LP	FP	FP	–
Amani Hooker	SAF	Illness	DNP	DNP	FP	–

Some notes​

• Nine Chiefs have been declared out for the game — but only seven were eligible to play this week.
• Five of them — wide receiver Rashee Rice (concussion), wide receiver Tyquan Thornton (concussion), tackle Jawaan Taylor (elbow), offensive lineman Jaylon Moore (knee) and linebacker Leo Chenal (shoulder) — did not participate in all of this week’s practices.
• Cornerback Trent McDuffie (knee) was limited on Thursday after being held out on Wednesdayy. He was downgraded to did not participate on Friday and is out for the game.
• Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi (illness), who was added to Thursday’s report. He was held out again on Friday and is out for Sunday’s game.
• That leaves tight end Jake Briningstool (hamstring) and cornerback Nazeeh Johnson (shoulder), who were designated for return from Reserve/Injured, making them available to practice with the team — and opening the possibility that they could be activated to the roster. Despite being full participants on all three practice days, they are out for this week’s matchup.
• But after missing last week’s game, guard Trey Smith (ankle) and wide receiver Hollywood Brown (personal) will be good to go on Sunday.
• For the Titans, three players have been declared out
• Two of them — wide receiver Bryce Oliver (knee) and outside linebacker Oluwafemi Oladejo (fibula) — were designated for return from Reserve/Injured on Wednesday and limited on Friday. (Another player designated this week — outside linebacker Ali Gaye (knee) — was limited on Friday, but was given no game designation. It’s possible he could be activated to the roster before the game).
• That leaves linebacker Cedric Gray (concussion), who was upgraded to limited on Friday, but will not play on Sunday.
• Five Titans were declared questionable for Week 16.
• Starting linebacker Arden Key (illness) was added to the report after being held out on Friday.
• Two starters were upgraded to full participation on Friday, but are questionable for the game: wide receiver Van Jefferson (back) and tight end Gunnar Helm (toe).
• Two starters who were limited on Friday — guard Kevin Zeitler (groin) and and cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis (achilles) — round out the Titans who are questionable for Sunday’s matchup.
• No other players were given game designations — including safety Amani Hooker (illness), who was upgraded to full participation on Friday.

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For the Thursday injury report, click here.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-16-friday-injury-report-7-players-out-2-back