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[Kansas City Chiefs]

2 big Chiefs thoughts during their bye week

The Kansas City Chiefs’ bye week is an excellent time to take stock of where the team now stands. Here’s what I’ve been thinking this week.

1. It was entirely predictable that the Chiefs wouldn’t make trades​

It’s unfortunate. The NFL’s trade deadline happened right after the team’s 28-21 road loss to one of its fiercest AFC rivals: the Buffalo Bills. This — along with the team’s unexpected 5-4 record — amped up everyone’s expectations about what general manager Brett Veach needed to do. And to make things even worse, the team’s fans now have a whole extra week to get themselves worked into a lather about what they see as a deliberate lack of action at a critical moment.

But it was never likely the Chiefs would make a significant trade. The team definitely has roster needs to address, but has few resources available to meet them. As our Jared Sapp noted in his “Arrowhead Pride Mailbag” column two weeks ago, the team is already going to be $30 million over the salary cap in 2026 — and that’s with only 35 players under contract. That means the team will need every draft pick it can get to bring young, inexpensive players onto the roster. And it had just $3.3 million in cap space with which to work. That’s enough to deal with the team’s current commitments through the end of the season, but it leaves little for anything else.

A significant part of this cap space problem is from the relatively large number of players the team now has on its Reserve/Injured and Reserve/NFI lists. These 10 players are now occupying $10.1 million in cap space.

For the rest of it, though… Kansas City got into this situation on its own. Based on what we now know, the deal for cornerback Kristian Fulton was a mistake. So was last season’s trade for defensive end Josh Uche — and just before this season started, releasing defensive tackle Mike Pennel.

It’s reasonable to disagree with decisions like these. But once they’ve been made, we shouldn’t be mad that Veach passed on making a trade. Giving the New York Jets a third-round pick (plus $1.6 million in 2025 salary) for running back Breece Hall? Spending a third- or fourth-round pick (and $1.3 million) to get Dre’Mont Jones from the Tennessee Titans? Given the Chiefs’ circumstances, those deals were just too pricey.

We can expect Kansas City to make some other moves. But those will be for players being waived by teams whose seasons have become hopeless. (This is how the team acquired Terrell Suggs in 2019.) These players will be significantly less expensive against the cap — and, of course, won’t require giving up draft picks.

2. Is it possible the Chiefs are done?​

Since Sunday’s loss to the Bills, some have suggested that Kansas City’s season is over — that there’s no way the team can recover from its 5-4 start.

By looking at modern NFL history, it’s possible to reach that conclusion.

Since the 1970 merger, there have been 276 instances where a team had a 5-4 record after its ninth game. Most of these teams didn’t make the playoffs, but 121 (44%) did play in the postseason. Just 46 of these 5-4 teams (17%) won their divisions. Six (2%) went to the Super Bowl. Just two (less than 1%) won the championship.

So it’s true the Chiefs have dug themselves a pretty deep hole. Statistically, less than half of the 5-4 teams from the league’s modern era have made the playoffs — and only a tiny percentage of them have even come close to a championship.

Half of those outliers took advantage of a statistical quirk. On average, the whole league has had five 5-4 teams in each season since 1970. But in 2000 and 2001, there were five 5-4 teams in the AFC alone. In 2002, the AFC had six 5-4 teams. In each one of those parity-driven seasons, the AFC champion was one of those 5-4 teams. The Baltimore Ravens (2000) and New England Patriots (2001) won their Super Bowls, but the Oakland Raiders (2002) fell to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (coached by Jon Gruden, who had been the Raiders’ coach in the previous season) in Super Bowl XXXVII.

Unfortunately, the 2025 Chiefs aren’t that lucky. They are the only AFC team that started the season 5-4.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean you should count them out. Let’s not forget: in the 12 seasons Andy Reid has been the team’s head coach, the team has won 148 games. That leads the league by a lot — 20 more than the Seattle Seahawks in second place and 22 more than the Patriots in third. The team has had winning streaks of at least five games in every one of those seasons. These include 2015 — when the team won 10 straight after beginning the season 1-5 — and 2023, when the Chiefs were 9-6 after being humiliated by the Las Vegas Raiders on Christmas Day. They won six straight to finish that season — and win their second straight Super Bowl.

Those seasons with long winning streaks also include 2021. That year, Kansas City was 5-4 after nine weeks. The team finished 7-1 to end the season 12-5, defeated the Bills 42-36 in overtime — one of the greatest playoff games in NFL history — and then recorded a 27-24 overtime loss to the Cincinnati Bengals in the AFC championship.

And yes… that was another outlier season. Seven AFC teams started the 2021 season 5-4 — including the Bengals.

So make no mistake: it will not be easy for the Chiefs to make the postseason, win the division or get anywhere in January and February. If it succeeds — even partially — it will be remembered as the greatest challenge the franchise has ever overcome.

It reminds me of the old story. A man is walking down the street and falls into a hole. A doctor walks by, so the man asks for help getting out. The doctor tosses down a prescription and walks away. Then a priest comes along. Asked for help, he writes a prayer on a piece of paper and throws it down.

Finally a friend passes the hole. “Hey, Andy,” the man calls out. “Can you help me? I’ve fallen into this hole, and I can’t climb out.” Andy immediately jumps into the hole beside his friend.

“What’s the matter with you?“ the man asks incredulously. ”Now we’re both down here!“

“Yes,” replies Andy. “But I’ve been down here before. And I know the way out.”

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...3/2-big-chiefs-thoughts-during-their-bye-week

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs’ 2025 Bye Week Awards: Who wins team MVP?

There are nine games in the books — with eight more to go. The Kansas City Chiefs are taking their bye week in Week 10, so it’s time to dish out some midseason awards.

---

QB – Patrick Mahomes​

VOTING: QB Patrick Mahomes (10)​

We’ll be fully transparent: most contributors had already cast their vote before Mahomes turned in what was arguably the most frustrating regular-season performance of his career in Week 9’s 28-21 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

That sour note heading into the bye, however, does not wipe away the streak Mahomes had been on after the season’s first two games.

Starting at halftime of Week 3’s contest against the New York Giants, Mahomes had put together one of the best stretches of his career. With half of the season now in the rearview, Mahomes is third in the league with 2,349 passing yards and in a six-way tie for third with 17 touchdown passes. Mahomes’ cumulative stats would be more impressive, however, had he not put himself in a position to watch much of the fourth quarter of Week 4’s contest against the Baltimore Ravens (and Week 7’s shutout of the Las Vegas Raiders) from the bench.

Mahomes has also continued to show his toughness as a runner, putting the offense on his legs when he’s been unable to win with his arm. In 2025, he has rushed for a career-high 31.7 yards per game — and has added four touchdowns on the ground.

While the Chiefs’ record is disappointing at 5-4, Mahomes’ ability for heroics has put the team in a position to tie or take the lead in every game. With some of the league’s best offenses on tap after the bye week, Kansas City will need to replicate the success Mahomes delivered for a month; he’ll need to quickly move past completing fewer than 50% of his passes for the first time in his career against Buffalo.

The sports betting industry is still banking on Mahomes playing at an elite level during the season’s second half. Even after four losses, Kansas City currently tops FanDuel Sportsbook’s odds to win Super Bowl LX. Mahomes ranks third in their odds to win this season’s NFL MVP award.

When the Chiefs return to the field against the Denver Broncos in Week 11, we expect Mahomes to be playing at an elite level. He has a strong chance to end his age-30 season among the NFL’s top 30 all-time passers — and in the top 20 for career touchdown passes.

Enjoy the ride! The best quarterback of his generation still calls Kansas City home.

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Click here for all of our 2025 Bye Week Awards

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kansas-city-chiefs-roster/185418/2025-bye-week-awards-team-mvp

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 11/10: Kansas City almost traded for Seahawks linebacker

The latest​

Chiefs-Seahawks trade rumor details near deadline deal between Kansas City and Seattle | Sporting News

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Seattle and Kansas City were close on a trade that centered around Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe, who was the subject of trade rumors before deadline day.

However, despite the fact that it was believed something would get done, the Seahawks decided to hold on to their veteran linebacker.

“A near deal: At Tuesday’s NFL deadline, the Chiefs made a late strong push to acquire Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe, per sources,” Schefter reported.

“Some thought the deal would get done; one source even thought it was completed. But right before the deadline, Seattle opted to hold on to Mafe,” he added.

There were no shortage of rumblings the Chiefs were on the lookout for a trade to improve their pass-rush, hence their interest in Mafe.

Patrick Mahomes ‘Extremely Proud’ of Texas Tech amid Push for CFP Bracket Spot | Bleacher Report

During an appearance on ESPN College GameDay before the game, Mahomes gave his take on the Red Raiders’ success so far this season, saying, “Extremely proud. I’ve seen the work day in and day out. I’ve stayed in tune, and the guys have been fighting to get to this moment. Great opportunity to go out there and seize it.”

With the Chiefs on their bye week, Mahomes was in attendance at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, to watch one of the most important games Texas Tech has played in years.

The Red Raiders were 8-1 overall and 5-1 in Big 12 play entering Saturday’s game, while BYU was 8-0 overall and 5-0 in conference.

Texas Tech is eighth in the College Football Playoff rankings, just one spot behind No. 7 BYU, meaning the Red Raiders have a legitimate chance to make the CFP field for the first time ever.

A win over BYU would go a long way toward potentially making that a reality, as it would allow Texas Tech to leapfrog the Cougars for first place in the Big 12.

In addition to Mahomes being on hand to watch the game, the Red Raiders were decked out in their all-white “Too Cold” uniforms as part of a collaboration with Adidas and Mahomes.

Former Chiefs Super Bowl champion wide receiver releases new rap album | USA Today

The Kansas City Chiefs have had many players who have gone on to pursue other ventures following their tenure with the team. Former Super Bowl champion Kadarius Toney is the latest to make his mark outside of football with the release of a new rap album.

Toney is continuing his much-discussed music career with the recent release of his rap album titled ‘WARRIOR4LYFE‘ under his artist name ‘Yung Joka’. The former wide receiver has already released three full albums and multiple mixtapes since 2019.

The two-time Super Bowl champion last played in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns in the 2024 season. He was waived before the end of the season after mishaps during his brief tenure on the team.

Around the NFL​

Paul Tagliabue, the NFL’s commissioner in an era of massive growth, dies at 84 | The Athletic

“All of us in the NFL are deeply saddened by the passing of Paul Tagliabue, whose principled leadership and vision put the NFL on the path to unparalleled success,” current NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. “Throughout his decades-long leadership on behalf of the NFL, first as outside counsel and then during a powerful 17-year tenure as commissioner, Paul served with integrity, passion and an unwavering conviction to do what was best for the league.

“During his Hall of Fame NFL career, Paul fostered labor peace with our players, oversaw the expansion of the league to 32 teams, ushered in an era of state-of-the-art stadiums and laid the important groundwork of establishing the league as a global brand.”

Under Tagliabue, the NFL added four teams — the Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars (1995), the Cleveland Browns (1999, replacing the previous team with the same name that moved to Baltimore and became the Ravens) and the Houston Texans (2002). He also oversaw multiple relocations beyond the Browns’ move to Baltimore, as the Rams and Raiders both left Los Angeles — for St. Louis and Oakland, respectively — and the Oilers left Houston for Tennessee and were rebranded as the Titans.

NFL Week 10 overreactions and reality checks: Colts’ Jonathan Taylor runaway MVP | CBS Sports

Buffalo’s Super Bowl window has closed

Overreaction or reality: Overreaction

Maybe the most stunning result from Week 10 was the Buffalo Bills being blown out by the Miami Dolphins, 30-13. This loss was compounded by the Patriots defeating the Buccaneers on Sunday, which extended their lead in the AFC East. Now, Buffalo trails New England by two games in the win column for first place in the division, and is currently losing in the head-to-head tiebreaker. Beyond where Buffalo currently sits in the standings, the jarring result does bring questions about whether or not this team has missed its window for a championship. That would be a bit of a stretch, however. Yes, Buffalo has its deficiencies — including at wide receiver — but with Josh Allen under center, this team still has a championship ceiling, even if that comes via a wild-card entry.

Derrick Henry finally matched his high school stats after 10 years in the NFL | SB Nation

In Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings, Henry gained 20 yards on 75 carries, bringing his season total to 629 rushing yards on 128 attempts. While he was stopped for no gain on his final carry of the afternoon, his 19th rushing attempt against the Vikings picked up three yards.

That carry brought his career total to 12,127 yards over his ten years in the NFL.

A mark that is just three yards more than he gained during his four years in high school.

Lions offense rolls as Dan Campbell takes over playcalling | ESPN

Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell took over playcalling duties from first-year offensive coordinator John Morton this past week, and it ignited a dominant 44-22 victory over the Washington Commanders on Sunday.

Campbell said he met with Morton for an honest conversation to discuss some changes last Monday, a day after a stunning home loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

Entering Sunday’s game, Detroit ranked among the league leaders in total points per game but was still struggling to find an offensive identity outside of the home run plays.

“Look, it was honest, it was he and I and we were good,” Campbell said of the meeting. “And like I told him, ‘Man I need you … but I feel like this is something that I’m going to do.’

Colts top Falcons in overtime thriller in Germany | NBC Sports

The fans in Germany were treated to a highly entertaining early game on Sunday, with the Colts coming out on top 28-25 in overtime.

Colts running back Jonathan Taylor was the star of the show, carrying 32 times for 244 yards and three touchdowns, including the overtime game-winner.

It was a wild, back-and-forth battle that saw the teams trade touchdowns and the Falcons take a late fourth-quarter lead, only to have Colts kicker Michael Badgley hit a field goal with 25 seconds left in the fourth quarter to tie the game 25-25 and send it into overtime.

After the referee initially botched the overtime coin toss, the Falcons eventually won the re-flip and elected to receive, but their offense couldn’t move the ball and punted after the opening possession. From there the Colts marched the ball down the field, with Taylor doing the bulk of the work and reaching the end zone to win it.

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

Chiefs’ 2025 Bye Week Awards: Who wins team MVP?

VOTING: QB Patrick Mahomes (10)

We’ll be fully transparent: most contributors had already cast their vote before Mahomes turned in what was arguably the most frustrating regular-season performance of his career in Week 9’s 28-21 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

That sour note heading into the bye, however, does not wipe away the streak Mahomes had been on after the season’s first two games.

Starting at halftime of Week 3’s contest against the New York Giants, Mahomes had put together one of the best stretches of his career. With half of the season now in the rearview, Mahomes is third in the league with 2,349 passing yards and in a six-way tie for third with 17 touchdown passes. Mahomes’ cumulative stats would be more impressive, however, had he not put himself in a position to watch much of the fourth quarter of Week 4’s contest against the Baltimore Ravens (and Week 7’s shutout of the Las Vegas Raiders) from the bench.

Mahomes has also continued to show his toughness as a runner, putting the offense on his legs when he’s been unable to win with his arm. In 2025, he has rushed for a career-high 31.7 yards per game — and has added four touchdowns on the ground.

Social media to make you think​

Y’all remember the GREATEST game in NFL History?

RAMS: 54
CHIEFS: 51

Both teams were 9-1

Both QB’s threw for 400+ Yards

Both teams scored 50+ points (1st time)

Mahomes: 33/46, 478 Yards, 6 TD’s, 3 INT’s

Goff: 31/49, 413 Yards, 4 TD’s, 0 INT’s

14 Total TD’s scored.. pic.twitter.com/gKVrTlZyQL

— Austin Abbott (@AustinAbbottFF) November 8, 2025

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ot-deadline-deal-done-for-seahawks-linebacker

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

How the Chiefs’ aggressive fourth-down calls have helped them in 2025

Coming out of their bye week, the Kansas City Chiefs are 5-4 on the season, sitting third in the AFC West. So far, this season has shown little of the dominance displayed by the Chiefs since quarterback Patrick Mahomes took over the offense in 2018. Down the stretch, the team will have to fight to make the playoffs.

One thing that will help is that after some early-season struggles, the Kansas City offense appears to be back on track — aided in large part by the team’s fourth-down decision-making.

During Reid’s early seasons with the Chiefs, the team was routinely in the lower third of the league in fourth-down attempts. During Mahomes’ first four seasons as a starter, Kansas City’s highest number of attempts was 16 in 2020. That season, the team converted only nine of those attempts, which also ranked toward the bottom of the league.

But in recent years, all of that has changed.

Increases in attempts and conversions​

By now, most of the NFL has joined the high-risk, high-reward world of fourth-down attempts. Over his career, Reid has typically been one of the league’s more conservative coaches in this area — but this season, he has bucked his own trend.

Chiefs' 4th down numbers the last four seasons:

2022: 9 for 12 – 2nd in %
2023: 10 for 20 – t16 in %
2024: 12 for 17 – 3rd in %
2025: 16 for 20 – 3rd in %

Already converting at a high rate, and we have not seen a Reid-led team this eager to go for it on 4th down situations.

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) November 5, 2025

Over the last three seasons, the Chiefs have increased the number of times they’ve gone for it on fourth down, staying in step with a league where these aggressive decisions have become more common.

In 2025, however, they’ve outdone themselves. The team has elected to go for it on fourth down 20 times this season. Second to the Carolina Panthers (who have 21 this season), that’s easily Kansas City’s highest rate since head coach Andy Reid arrived in 2013.

The Chiefs’ 16 conversions from these attempts leads the league. And while many teams have depended on variations of the tush push to succeed on fourth down, Kansas City has managed to lead the league without a single quarterback sneak.

Breaking down the snaps​

The Chiefs’ fourth-down attempts have been evenly divided between passes and runs — and the team has converted eight of the 10 plays of each type. This balance has made the team unpredictable in these situations — but it has also leaned heavily on one player: running back Kareem Hunt, who converted all eight rushing first downs. He’s also caught two fourth-down conversions — one of them good for a touchdown.

Wide receivers Hollywood Brown and Xavier Worthy have both collected a pair of fourth-down receptions — and each has also recorded a fourth-down score. Otherwise, Mahomes, the other wideouts (and tight end Travis Kelce) have pitched in to keep the sticks moving.

Success with Hunt​

Hunt became the team’s short-yardage back in 2024. He’s reprised this role in 2025, becoming an important factor in the team’s success.

Kareem Hunt has converted ten of the Chiefs' 16 fourth-down conversions this season. He has definitely been an asset when they need a few tough yards. pic.twitter.com/Oj7r8KlTuV

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) November 8, 2025

While the offensive tackles have been inconsistent this season, the reliable interior trio of Kingsley Suamataia, Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith — with Mike Caliendo sprinkled in — have provided Hunt with the blocking he’s needed to be nearly automatic in these situations, earning the full trust of the coaching staff.

Hunt might not be the player he once was, but he is certainly making the most of his second act as a premier short-yardage back.

Why now?​

The some extent, Kansas City’s increased aggression on fourth down is due to Reid’s supreme trust in his running back, quarterback and interior offensive line. But the AFC’s postseason race is also a factor. With key divisional games on the horizon (not to mention a crucial Week 12 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts), the team’s newfound aggression is almost out of necessity. The AFC is loaded with talent — and many teams are going all-out to beat the Chiefs so they can capitalize on their own Super Bowl windows.

Reid knows all of this — and also that with its 5-4 record, Kansas City is on the outside looking in. To do the unthinkable — for his team to fight its way back to a fourth consecutive Super Bowl — he knows it will take an extraordinary effort. So his once-conservative approach to fourth-down decision-making has disappeared.

And it’s exactly what the Chiefs need.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ressive-fourth-down-calls-have-helped-in-2025

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 11/11: As it stands, Chiefs would have the 17th pick in the NFL Draft

The latest​

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Three top-five QBs and a No. 1 pick nobody saw coming | CBS Sports

17 – Kansas City Chiefs

Avieon Terrell CB
Clemson • Jr • 5’11” / 180 lbs

Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams are slated to hit free agency after the season. Watson likely returns, but the Chiefs haven’t historically overvalued the position — and a Trent McDuffie extension should be a priority. Aveion Terrell steps in to fill the potential void.

2026 NFL Draft order and updated needs for every team | NFL.com

17 – Kansas City Chiefs

Strength of schedule: .500

Remaining SOS: .546 (8)

Week 11 opponent: at Broncos

Biggest needs: TE, CB, RB, DL, WR

The Chiefs have not drafted a tight end in the first three rounds since selecting Travis Kelce in 2013, but it might be wise for the team to invest in a young difference-maker at the position in 2026. Kelce, a future Hall of Famer, is in a contract year at 36 years old and Noah Gray, signed through 2027, is a solid backup.

Andy Reid on Chris Jones’ production: ‘We all need to do better’ | Chiefs Wire

During a media availability session on Monday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid was asked if Jones needed to take his game to another level after Kansas City’s bye week.

Reid made a point to keep from throwing his veteran sackmaster under the bus, and emphasized that his whole team has room for improvement.

“I think we all need to do better,” Reid said, “I would say that. Chris (Jones) is always striving to do better every day. That’s what has made him (Chris Jones) such a good player. Again, he’s the guy that they’re going to focus on and if you’re getting a double team, that’s who’s getting doubled. He’ll get his as we go forward, it’s just important that he stays consistent and keeps working hard.”

Ex-Chiefs safety’s slide continues after Steelers made a telling decision | Arrowhead Addict

Thornhill signed a one-year free-agent deal with Pittsburgh last March to bolster the secondary and provide championship experience for Teryl Austin’s defense. The entire unit has disappointed through the first 9 games for the 5-4 Steelers, and now they’ve singled out Thornhill in the hopes of improving the unit. It also sends a warning shot to other lackluster performers.

The Steelers are filling Thornhill’s spot with the signing of safety Sebastian Castro on waivers following his release from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As for where Thornhill goes, that’s anybody’s guess.

Teams already familiar to Thornhill are the Kansas City Chiefs, who drafted him in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, and the Cleveland Browns, who gave him life-changing money in the form of a three-year deal worth up to $21 million in 2023.

Around the NFL​

Giants fire Brian Daboll as head coach, and he had it coming | SB Nation

Daboll was hired to much fanfare in 2022 as part of a culture shift inside the organization. Coming from winning pedigrees in Buffalo, Kansas City, and New England it initially felt like he was the right man to get the job done after winning Coach of the Year honors in his first season, when he led the Giants to a 9-7-1 record, a surprise playoff berth, and a playoff win.

Unfortunately things only went down from there.

Routinely the Giants were underachievers. Never the worst team in the league, but nothing about them inspired any kind of faith. In 2023 the team regressed with a revolving door of quarterbacks to finish 6-11, which got worse in 2024 with a 3-14 record. Every year began with the promise that this would be the time Daboll had the pieces to finally make things work, only to reveal more disappointment.

Bengals’ Joe Burrow practices, hopes to return Thanksgiving Day | ESPN

Burrow said Monday that it will be very meaningful if he can return from a turf toe injury on his left foot for the Thanksgiving Day game against the Baltimore Ravens on Nov. 27. Two years ago, Burrow suffered a season-ending wrist injury during a November prime-time game at M&T Bank Stadium that was also on a Thursday night.

He officially returned to practice Monday in a limited capacity as the team opened his 21-day window to return from injured reserve.

“We’ll see how these next couple weeks go,” Burrow said in his first news conference since the injury. “There’s a lot that goes into it. There’s a lot of variables that you have to consider.”

Nick Sirianni Defends Decision to Go for Controversial 4th Down in Win vs. Packers | SI

Nick Sirianni put his Eagles in a dangerous spot on Monday when he decided to go for it on fourth-and-6 toward the end of the game against the Packers.

After recovering a Packers fumble on fourth-and-1 late in the fourth quarter with about 1:26 remaining, the Eagles, leading 10-7, appeared to be on their way to a victory. The Packers had two timeouts, and managed to stop the Eagles on the first three plays of their final series. Rather than attempt a field goal or punt the football away, the Eagles decided to go for it on fourth-and-6. Quarterback Jalen Hurts threw deep to receiver A.J. Brown, and the pass fell incomplete.

This incompletion gave the Packers the ball back at their own 36-yard line with 27 seconds to go, handing them a good opportunity to gain at least 25 yards and attempt a potential game-tying field goal. Fortunately for the Eagles, the Packers offense that had been dysfunctional for much of the night wasn’t able to generate much else on the final drive. The Packers offense did enough to put kicker Brandon McManus in position to attempt a 64-yard field goal, but on a windy night at Lambeau, it easily missed.

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

How the Chiefs’ aggressive fourth-down calls have helped them in 2025 | Arrowhead Pride

Breaking down the snaps

The Chiefs’ fourth-down attempts have been evenly divided between passes and runs — and the team has converted eight of the 10 plays of each type. This balance has made the team unpredictable in these situations — but it has also leaned heavily on one player: running back Kareem Hunt, who converted all eight rushing first downs. He’s also caught two fourth-down conversions — one of them good for a touchdown.

Wide receivers Hollywood Brown and Xavier Worthy have both collected a pair of fourth-down receptions — and each has also recorded a fourth-down score. Otherwise, Mahomes, the other wideouts (and tight end Travis Kelce) have pitched in to keep the sticks moving.

Social media to make you think​

Giving back to the KC community

At their 6th annual gala, the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation announced that in the past year, they granted over $1.5 million to 27 local charities! pic.twitter.com/s45wFg8Fd6

— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) November 10, 2025

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...efs-would-have-the-17th-pick-in-the-nfl-draft

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Revisiting 5 of my biggest preseason questions about the Chiefs

In a series of articles published over the summer, I covered the 10 biggest questions facing the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025. During the bye week, I revisited the questions. We’ll look at the other five in a later article.

1. How well will Jaden Hicks replace Justin Reid?​

Before the season, it felt like second-year safety Jaden Hicks was a natural replacement for veteran former Chiefs’ safety Justin Reid. Both are long, dense safeties who are best at playing in the box and helping in run support. However, I underestimated the coverage gap between Reid and Hicks. Reid was smart and generally in the right spots. Hicks doesn’t have that experience yet.

After struggling to start the year, Hicks’ role has lightened. He has been on the field for roughly 50% of snaps, but it changes based on the Chiefs’ need for his skill set. Against the Buffalo Bills, Hicks only saw four snaps while defensive back Christian Roland-Wallace (16 snaps) played in dime personnel alongside starting safeties Bryan Cook and Chamarri Conner.

2. Can the Chiefs improve their pass rush this season?​

So far, the answer is no, but it’s not significantly better or worse than last year. Defensive end George Karlaftis has had maybe his best season by getting quick pressure more often, while defensive tackle Chris Jones hasn’t played quite as well this year. In my opinion, Jones is lacking in dominant moments.

After Jones and Karlaftis, the Chiefs’ pass rush has been very poor. Two years removed from injury, I was hoping defensive end Charles Omenihu would bounce back, but he hasn’t regained his form. Defensive end Mike Danna is also less impactful than in previous years. Rookie defensive end Ashton Gillotte has some nice moments, but he’s not ready to really contribute. Rookie defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott was drafted to replace some of what Kansas City had in former defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton, but he tore his ACL before he could get going.

The Chiefs’ pass rush wins with Jones or Karlaftis — or from a designed pressure by defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Over the last two years, it has not been a fruitful strategy for Kansas City to rush four.

3. Which 2022 draft pick will have the best contract year?​

When I wrote the original piece, Karlaftis had not yet been extended, so he is now disqualified from a contract year. The team has exercised its fifth-year option on cornerback Trent McDuffie, keeping him under contract next season.

For the rest of the class, cornerback Jaylen Watson is having the best year. He continues to be a very good No. 2 cornerback. He’s smart in zone coverage, defends screens and stops the run. On top of that, his length and ball skills make him a positive factor in man coverage. The former seventh-round pick is a great success story. Hopefully, the Chiefs reward him with an extension this offseason.

4. What will be the Chiefs’ best offensive line?​

Before the season, it wasn’t clear what the Chiefs’ best offensive line combination was going to be. Left tackle Josh Simmons was a rookie coming off a major leg injury, veteran tackle Jaylon Moore was signed in free agency and right tackle Jawaan Taylor had competition behind him. In addition, it wasn’t a guarantee that left guard Kingsley Suamataia would play well enough to hold his spot.

Fortunately for the Chiefs, their original starting five of Simmons, Suamataia, center Creed Humphrey, right guard Trey Smith and Taylor proved to be the best. Simmons has been fantastic all season and Suamataia gets better every week. Taylor still has his warts; he continues to have issues with penalties — and with dealing with power — but he’s steadily improved over the course of the year. Simmons’ personal absence is the only reason the starting offensive line has changed at all.

5. Where should Trent McDuffie play this season?​

Kansas City’s defensive formation is typically dictated by where McDuffie plays. When he is in the slot, the Chiefs can weaponize him by blitzing him, having him drop to safety or cover a slot receiver one-on-one. The downside is less-effective play from outside cornerbacks; when McDuffie is outside, you have a shutdown corner.

In 2025, it’s been some of both for McDuffie. It typically depends on which opposing receivers are on the field — and on the game situation.

The Chiefs have sometimes put McDuffie in the slot and let rookie cornerback Nohl Williams play on the outside. Williams has played 29% of snaps this season, but recently played 67% snaps against the Bills. The Chiefs put McDuffie in the slot to counter Bills’ receiver Khalil Shakir — and also so he would be in position to blitz quarterback Josh Allen. It wouldn’t be surprising to see this trend continuing after the bye.

When McDuffie is playing outside, safety Chamarri Conner tends to man the slot. Unfortunately, he has struggled to play coverage from that alignment. In Week 1, the Los Angeles Chargers identified Conner as a weakness and picked on him. Since then, Conner has been playing more deep safety — and to his credit, he has held up well.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kansas-city-chiefs-roster/186222/revisiting-5-preseason-questions

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 11/12: Analyst believes Chiefs will win AFC number 1 seed

The latest​

NFL picks: Predicting every remaining game, final record, playoff outlook for each AFC team | NFL.com

Chiefs’ midseason report card

Projected record through Week 10: 7-2

Kansas City’s actual record: 5-4

Games correct: 5 of 9

I was right about … the Chiefs losing their fifth straight regular-season game to the Bills.

I was wrong about … Week 4 vs. the Ravens. In hindsight, probably a bit overzealous of me to underestimate the reigning AFC champs at home. Even if Lamar Jackson hadn’t exited early with a hamstring injury, the Chiefs were the superior team that Sunday afternoon, outclassing a Baltimore squad that wasn’t quite right out of the gate.

Second-half double down

Despite entering Week 11 three wins shy of the Broncos’ total and sitting third in the division, Kansas City stacks enough victories down the stretch — including both tilts with Denver — to capture its 10th consecutive AFC West title.

Final projection

Record: 13-4 (previous projection: 12-5)

Division finish: 1st (previous: same)

Will the Chiefs make the playoffs? Yes, as the No. 1 seed.

Chiefs vs Broncos: Betting Trend for Week 11 | The Mothership

The Kansas City Chiefs are coming off a bye going into their Week 11 matchup against the Denver Broncos.

Historically, this is a good thing for Andy Reid-coached teams.

Reid is 22-4 coming off a bye as head coach, which is the best record of any coach in NFL history. He was 13-1 after a bye with the Eagles and is 9-3 with the Chiefs.

The Kansas City coach is only 1-2 in games when both teams are coming off a bye, but when his team is coming off a bye and the other team played the week before, Reid is 21-2.

That will be the case this week, as Denver played at Las Vegas on Thursday Night Football in Week 10.

As of Monday’s NFL odds at BetMGM, the Chiefs are a 3.5-point favorite.

Giants’ head coach search might end with the Super Bowl legend they already know | Arrowhead Addict

NFL reporter Ian Rapoport recently spoke about the Giants’ head coaching opening and called it “one of the more coveted head coach openings in the NFL.” That’s due to the presence of young talent already on the roster, including quarterback Jaxson Dart. For Spagnuolo’s sake, it wouldn’t hurt to have such a fearsome front line anchored by Brian Burns, Dexter Lawrence, and Abdul Carter.

“[The Giants] now have, I would say, one of the more coveted head coach openings in the NFL. By the way, general manager Joe Schoen will not only stay on as GM, but run the search,” explained Rapoport in a recent update.

“Among the names I would keep an eye on as the Giants, let’s say, potentially look to kind of regain some of the greatness of the Tom Coughlin era, I would say Steve Spagnuolo and Antonio Pierce, two head coach candidates. Both guys they will look at. Lou Anarumo also has ties to the Giants organization.”

2025 NFL Power Rankings Week 11: The NFC is Much Better Than the AFC | FOX Sports

#13 Kansas City Chiefs

5-4

Super Bowl odds: +600

Still a dangerous team, but they come out of their bye with a 5-4 record and needing to win now. Big tests are looming, too, at Denver and versus the Colts.

Around the NFL​

Source: Eagles’ Jaire Alexander, 28, stepping away from NFL | ESPN

Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Jaire Alexander has decided to step away from football in order to focus on getting right physically and mentally amid his ongoing recovery from offseason knee surgery, a league source told ESPN on Tuesday, confirming a Fox Sports report.

Alexander, 28, informed the Eagles of his decision Tuesday, a day after their victory over the Green Bay Packers on “Monday Night Football.” He did not travel with the team to Green Bay for the game.

Jaguars WR/CB Travis Hunter undergoes season-ending knee surgery | NFL.com

The No. 2 overall pick underwent season-ending knee surgery to repair his LCL, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Tuesday, per sources informed of the procedure.

There was no additional damage to the injured knee, and Hunter is expected to return to football activities within six months, Rapoport added.

The team later confirmed the news.

It’s a disaster scenario for the Jags, who initially hoped that the knee injury suffered in practice two weeks ago would be a short-term issue. Hunter was placed on injured reserve, ruling him out for at least four contests. Instead, his rookie campaign is over after just seven games.

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

Revisiting 5 of my biggest preseason questions about the Chiefs | Arrowhead Pride

2. Can the Chiefs improve their pass rush this season?

So far, the answer is no, but it’s not significantly better or worse than last year. Defensive end George Karlaftis has had maybe his best season by getting quick pressure more often, while defensive tackle Chris Jones hasn’t played quite as well this year. In my opinion, Jones is lacking in dominant moments.

After Jones and Karlaftis, the Chiefs’ pass rush has been very poor. Two years removed from injury, I was hoping defensive end Charles Omenihu would bounce back, but he hasn’t regained his form. Defensive end Mike Danna is also less impactful than in previous years. Rookie defensive end Ashton Gillotte has some nice moments, but he’s not ready to really contribute. Rookie defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott was drafted to replace some of what Kansas City had in former defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton, but he tore his ACL before he could get going.

The Chiefs’ pass rush wins with Jones or Karlaftis — or from a designed pressure by defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Over the last two years, it has not been a fruitful strategy for Kansas City to rush four.

Social media to make you think​

Man went to the opps https://t.co/U6zdO5C1eF

— Ty Hill (@cheetah) November 11, 2025

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[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs’ Andy Reid unsure if Josh Simmons will start against the Broncos

It’s officially been one month since rookie left tackle Josh Simmons took a break from football to deal with a personal matter, and although he is back in Kansas City practicing with the team, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid is still declining to say whether Simmons will be back in his starting job this Sunday against the Denver Broncos.

“Yeah, we’ll just see,” Reid told reporters before Wednesday’s practice. “I haven’t even got him out for a practice yet, so let’s see how he’ll jump in and see what he can do and mix it up out there and do… and then we’ll go from there.”

So while it was far from a guarantee that Simmons will start against the Broncos, it was also a long way from ruling him out. One thing Reid has to take into consideration is that backup tackle Jaylon Moore has filled in pretty well in Simmons’ absence — although that has been complicated by right tackle Jawaan Taylor having his ankle banged up during the Chiefs’ Week 9 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

The good news is that both Simmons and Taylor were full participants in Wednesday’s practice. If the Chiefs do need some time to let Simmons work back into form, their hand isn’t being forced.

Still, Reid seemed cautiously hopeful that his tackle would be ready sooner rather than later.

“Let’s just see what kind of shape he’s in,” said Reid. “Get back into the football swing… I’m sure he’s gonna be OK, but we’ll see.”

As for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, he believes the team is “full steam ahead” as it tries to get its season back on track after a disappointing 5-4 start. He has faith that either Simmons or Moore can get the job done.

“We’re super excited to have Josh back and just being back in the building,” he said on Wednesday. “We’ll get him out in the practice field and see where he’s at. But I think you saw with both those guys, they can both play at a very high level — so I think Coach will make that decision as the week goes on. But I have confidence in both of them that they’ll go out there and have success.”

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-on-josh-simmons-starting-against-the-broncos

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 11/13: Chiefs are still Super Bowl favorites

The latest​

Super Bowl odds: Here come the Los Angeles Rams! | The Athletic

Before this NFL season started, sportsbooks gave the Los Angeles Rams a roughly 4 percent chance to win the Super Bowl, tied for 10th place on the betting board with their L.A. rivals, the Chargers.

Now they’re in second behind only the perennial odds darlings, the Kansas City Chiefs. The Rams have ridden a 7-2 record to +700 odds, which implies an over 12 percent chance of winning it all. The Chiefs are now at +550, which is a little over 15 percent. If Los Angeles wins their blockbuster NFC West matchup against the equally hot Seattle Seahawks this week, expect those odds to get even shorter.

Of course, week-to-week changes don’t necessarily make a huge difference in the odds, as the Chiefs’ stranglehold on the top spot evidences after their loss to the Buffalo Bills in Week 10 before their bye, putting them at a bizarre 5-4, good for eighth in the AFC, tied with the Jacksonville Jaguars (who, incidentally, beat them in Week 5).

Ex-Chiefs QB coach Mike Kafka is the Giants’ new interim head coach | Chiefs Wire

According to multiple reports, the Giants fired head coach Brian Daboll on Monday, following the team’s 2-8 start and a recent four-game losing streak. New York has promoted Kafka to interim head coach, adding another former Andy Reid assistant to the ranks of head coaches.

“Yes, (the Chiefs are) a great team. It was an awesome experience. But this opportunity was something that was special to me and my family. It wasn’t just something I took on a whim. I wasn’t just going to go to any team. It had to be built the right way with the people, Kafka said during his first press conference in front of New York media in 2022, “I have a lot of great relationships and great people in the Chiefs organization, and I respect them and have a lot of respect for the coaching staff and the guys there.”

NFL Week 11 picks, score predictions: Chiefs edge Broncos, Rams over Seahawks | CBS Sports

The problem with leading the league in sacks when you’re about to face the Chiefs is that Patrick Mahomes almost seems to enjoy getting sacked. Somehow, he plays even better when he gets sacked a few times. Since the start of the 2024 season, Mahomes is 8-1 when he gets sacked three or more times in a game. When he’s facing pressure, that gives him a chance to make something out of nothing on a broken play and as we all know at this point, no one is better at making something out of nothing. There’s a reason his nickname is Homesdini. OK, I’ll admit it, I’m the only one who calls him that.

There is a reason the Chiefs have won nine straight division titles and it’s because they always seem to win games like this. This is the fourth time in five years that the Chiefs have entered Week 11 with at least two losses and every time that happens, we start to write them off, and every time we do that, they respond by going on a run that ends up with them in the Super Bowl.

If the Broncos win, I promise to start trusting them, but I won’t be picking against the Chiefs in a must-win divisional showdown until someone proves they can actually beat them.

PICK: Chiefs 27-23 over Broncos | Chiefs -3.5 | Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook

Ten modern-day NFL stars with the throwback swagger to thrive in ’95 | NFL.com

Patrick Mahomes

Makes magic and directs traffic like: Steve Young

The easy comp here is one that followed Mahomes out of college — Brett Favre. The one that makes more sense involves another Hall-of-Fame quarterback in that era who could make plays with his legs and his arm — Young. Mahomes has become a legend because of moments that drop jaws and leave fans scratching their heads in amazement. What’s often underrated about his game is the cool efficiency that made Young so dangerous. Yes, Mahomes could surely have sliced and diced defenses in the ’90s, but his penchant for managing the game (he ranks third in NFL history with a 101.8 career passer rating) would’ve been just as potent as his superpowered heroics.

Of course, it also helps that the man has three Super Bowl victories under his belt. If you want somebody who can hang with the heavyweights of the day — a group that includes Favre, Young, Troy Aikman, John Elway, Dan Marino, Jim Kelly and Warren Moon — you had better have a guy who knows how to win. That is what separates Mahomes from Buffalo’s Josh Allen, while his durability makes him an easy pick over Joe Burrow. If you’re wondering why Lamar Jackson didn’t make the grade, then think about that decade. Sadly, it is highly unlikely anyone would’ve been open-minded or creative enough to build an offense around his skillset as a QB. Mahomes is the guy, hands down.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Giants add weapon for Jaxson Dart; Browns target QB, WR | CBS Sports

Round 1 – Pick 17
Avieon Terrell CB
Clemson • Jr • 5’11” / 180 lbs

Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams are slated to hit free agency after the season. Watson likely returns, but the Chiefs haven’t historically overvalued the position — and a Trent McDuffie extension should be a priority. Aveion Terrell steps in to fill the potential void.

2026 NFL free agency: Early top-25 ranking and predictions | ESPN

15. Jaylen Watson, CB

Current team: Kansas City Chiefs
2025 salary: $3.4 million
Age entering 2026 season: 27

What he brings: Watson isn’t a high-end playmaker, but he has the length to challenge in press, along with the route awareness to play top-down on the ball in zone schemes. Watson has two career interceptions and 22 pass breakups. — Bowen

What we’re hearing: Watson isn’t a marquee name but is one that generated buzz when discussing free agents with teams. “He’ll have a nice market,” an AFC executive said. “He could surprise some people.” The Chiefs’ extension candidates include star corner Trent McDuffie, which could force Watson to go elsewhere during the offseason. — Fowler

Chiefs DL George Karlaftis takes his game to another level this season | Chiefs Wire

The Kansas City Chiefs‘ defense has grown throughout the season, with moments of elite play from their stars, veterans, and rookies. A player they invested in long-term during the offseason is proving, week in and week out, the high value of that decision on the defensive line.

George Karlaftis has been a consistent threat on the defensive line alongside All-Pro Chris Jones. He’s collected 32 combined tackles and five sacks through nine games this season. He has found various ways to apply pressure to opposing quarterbacks and to affect opponents’ offensive game plans.

Last offseason, Karlaftis agreed to a four-year contract extension with the Chiefs, worth up to $93 million. He’s contributed mightily to Kansas City being ranked third in total defense through nine weeks.

Around the NFL​

Cowboys official reported Marshawn Kneeland text, asked for welfare check | ESPN

On the night Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland died, the team’s director of security, Cable Johnson, called law enforcement to ask for a welfare check on Kneeland and to tell police Kneeland had sent a text saying he didn’t want to go to jail.

“He sent out some group texts that are concerning — probably mental health — but the group texts seemed to be saying goodbye — made some statement about not able to go to prison or to jail,” Johnson told Plano police dispatch, according to audio obtained by ESPN through a public records request.

Kneeland died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound last week. Police found his body in the early morning last Thursday after he had evaded officers during a pursuit and fled on foot. Police have not said what prompted the pursuit.

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

Can the Chiefs prevent a changing of the guard in the AFC?

If the season ended today, the Kansas City Chiefs wouldn’t make the playoffs — and the Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, and New England Patriots would have the top three seeds.

How is this possible? Am I the only one who can’t believe this?

Before the season began, oddsmakers like FanDuel Sportsbook set the Colts’ win total at 7.5. The Patriots were at 8.5. The Broncos were the “leading contender” of the bunch at 9.5. That was tied with the Cincinnati Bengals, Houston Texans and Los Angeles Chargers for the AFC’s seventh-highest win total.

Football can be unpredictable, of course. But this is flat-out shocking. Is it here to stay?

Call me old school, but I’m hard-pressed to believe a team led by a quarterback like Daniel Jones, Bo Nix or Drake Maye will suddenly emerge as the AFC’s team to beat over teams led by Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen or Lamar Jackson.

Social media to make you think​

The NFC & AFC standings going into Week 11. Any surprises? #NFLonDAZN pic.twitter.com/k5KizZcoml

— NFL on DAZN (@NFLonDAZN) November 11, 2025

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...s-11-13-chiefs-are-still-super-bowl-favorites

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Broncos Thursday injury report: 1 more player limited

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 11, the Chiefs face the Denver Broncos on Empower Field at Mile High. Kickoff is set for 3:25 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
Isiah Pacheco	RB	Knee	DNP	DNP	–	–
Xavier Worthy	WR	Ankle	–	LP	–	–
George Karlaftis	DE	Thumb	LP	LP	–	–
Trey Smith	G	Back	FP	FP	–	–
Josh Simmons	T	Personal	FP	FP	–	–
Jawaan Taylor	T	Knee – Ankle	FP	FP	–	–
Charles Omenihu	DE	Ankle	FP	FP	–	–
Jaden Hicks	S	Pectoral	FP	FP	–	–

Broncos​

Player	Ps	Injury	Wed	Thu	Fri	Status
Check back soon for their official injury report	–	–	–	–	–	–

Some notes​

• For the Chiefs, wide receiver Xavier Worthy (ankle) was added to the report as a limited participant in Thursday’s practice. He joined defensive end George Karlaftis (thumb), who was limited on Wednesday and Thursday.
• As head coach Andy Reid implied on Monday, running back Isiah Pacheco (knee) is still unable to practice. He did not participate on Wednesday and Thursday. It’s looking more and more like he will miss Sunday’s game.
• All other Kansas City players listed on the report were full participants — including left tackle Josh Simmons and right tackle Jawaan Taylor (knee-ankle).

---

For the Wednesday injury report, click here.

<!--- NOTES AND OPTIONAL TEXT Check back soon for the XXOppNameXX official injury report. For the Wednesday injury report, click here.

• For the Broncos, the biggest name on the list is probably star cornerback Pat Surtain II (pectoral), who has missed the last two games. He did not participate on Wednesday — and is not expected to play on Sunday.

• Starting inside linebacker Alex Singleton (illness) was held out of practice after successful surgery for testicular cancer. While he will not play on Sunday, he is expected to return in a few weeks.

• Starting running back J.K. Dobbins (foot) also did not participate after being injured in last Thursday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Denver is reportedly considering placing him on its Reserve/Injured list.

• Three other players did not participate. Reserve tight end Nate Adkins (knee) has already missed two games. Rotational outside linebacker Jonah Elliss (hamstring) missed Thursday’s matchup, in which reserve wide receiver Trent Sherfield (toe) was injured.

• But there was good news for Denver. Rotational wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. (concussion) was a full participant for the first time since being injured in Week 8.

--->

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-thursday-injury-report-1-more-player-limited

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 11/14: Sunday is a ‘must win’ for the Chiefs

The latest​

NFL Expert Picks for Week 11 of 2025 | SB Nation

As we approach the sprint to the playoffs this week is full of divisional matchups that will go along way to settling the order for the playoffs. Even if these games aren’t impactful right now, they will be when Week 17 rolls around. Of these games the one to really circle is Broncos vs. Chiefs. Denver is leading the division, but haven’t been convincing in the first three quarters of games. Meanwhile Kansas City is desperate for a win to claw their way back in the AFC West and close the gap. This very much feels like a “must win,” for Patrick Mahomes and company.

NFL Week 11 picks: Upset and score predictions, matchup analysis for every game | NFL.com

Why Tom picked the Chiefs: I almost tricked myself into going with the Broncos and their superpowered defense at home. Could Denver’s pass rush keep Patrick Mahomes from getting back into the Master of the Universe groove that helped him power a three-game win streak for K.C.? Sure, maybe. Can Bo Nix give Andy Reid the fifth ever post-bye week loss of his decades-long head-coaching career? That’s a tougher question to answer — unless you need to splash some cold water on any idle thoughts of a Broncos upset, in which case it’s exactly where you want your brain to lead you. All due respect to Nix and Sean Payton for putting together an exciting season so far, but this figures to be the Biggest Test Yet of Denver’s legitimacy. And I would feel a lot better about the Broncos’ chances if I knew they were going to have Patrick Surtain II and J.K. Dobbins on the field, as they did for their only victory to date against a team that is currently in the playoff picture, a four-point squeaker over the ever-angsty Eagles back in Week 5. It feels like everything would have to line up perfectly for Denver to pull this off, and Mahomes and Co.’s fresh-and-rested status kind of takes that scenario off the table from the jump.

2025 NFL rookie report: Best and most disappointing player for every team | CBS Sports

Kansas City Chiefs

Best: OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State (Round 1, No. 32 overall)

Simmons has missed some time this season, so he was not a runaway winner. Cornerback Nohl Williams and running back Brashard Smith have given them good snaps as well. However, knowing Kansas City’s issues at tackle in recent years, Simmons’ flashes suggest those may now be answered.

Most disappointing: DT Omarr Norman-Lott, Tennessee (Round 2, No. 63 overall)

Neither edge rusher Ashton Gillotte nor Norman-Lott have fulfilled the team’s vision. Those two positions were targeted by the team at the trade deadline. Norman-Lott was personally rated more highly, so the expectation is that he would at least supplement the pass rush. After five games, he went on injured reserve and was lost for the season.

NFL picks: Predicting every remaining game, final record, playoff outlook for each AFC team | NFL.com

I was right about … the Chiefs losing their fifth straight regular-season game to the Bills.

I was wrong about … Week 4 vs. the Ravens. In hindsight, probably a bit overzealous of me to underestimate the reigning AFC champs at home. Even if Lamar Jackson hadn’t exited early with a hamstring injury, the Chiefs were the superior team that Sunday afternoon, outclassing a Baltimore squad that wasn’t quite right out of the gate.

Second-half double down

Despite entering Week 11 three wins shy of the Broncos’ total and sitting third in the division, Kansas City stacks enough victories down the stretch — including both tilts with Denver — to capture its 10th consecutive AFC West title

Harrison Butker is quietly putting any early-season concerns behind him | Arrowhead Addict

“[Butker] has had a couple of good games in a row,” said Toub. “That’s great. He’s had a really good practice. I thought it was his best Wednesday practice yesterday. You know, the ball’s flying good right now.

Specifically, Toub pointed to the first practice back from the bye week off and believes it might have helped the team’s hard-working kicker.

“I think the rest might have helped [Butker]. We talk about, ‘You gotta go back to work,’ and he does a lot. I think this break was really good for him, because he looked really good yesterday. Two good games, and hopefully we’ve got this thing righted.”

Around the NFL​

Bengals’ Joe Flacco downplays looming demotion for Joe Burrow: ‘I’m honestly not really thinking about it’ | NFL.com

The true messiah — franchise quarterback Joe Burrow — made his way back to the practice field this week and is nearing his highly anticipated return, meaning Flacco will soon head back to the bench as a 40-year-old backup. The clock is ticking on his tenure as Bengals starter, a thankless job that has included an assortment of joys and frustration, but Flacco isn’t wasting time pondering what his future might look like in December.

“I don’t know, I think backups probably do it a good amount where they know like, ‘Hey, this guy’s coming back, he’s got a three-week injury or whatever it is,'” Flacco said, via The Cincinnati Enquirer. “I’m honestly not really thinking about it. It’s not really a part of my process. I really don’t care. It’s this week, and that’s all that matters. And I think to think about that stuff would just be a distraction. So it’s not really something I’m worried about.

Henderson shines as Patriots top Jets to earn best record in NFL | ESPN

New England Patriots rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson has made the most of his opportunity, filling in for injured starter Rhamondre Stevenson, who has missed the past three games because of a toe injury. Henderson’s two touchdown runs and one receiving touchdown helped the Patriots to a 27-14 victory over the New York Jets on Thursday night, sparking a question on whether he might assume a larger role when Stevenson returns.

The Patriots improved to 9-2 with the win, the best record in the NFL, and won their eighth in a row.

Henderson became the second rookie in Patriots history to have multiple rushing touchdowns in consecutive games, joining Curtis Martin, who had a three-game streak and two-game streak in 1995.

Documents: NFL filed grievance against NFLPA to stop report cards | ESPN

The NFL filed a grievance against the NFL Players Association, asking the union to stop its annual team report cards and saying the exercise violates the collective bargaining agreement by airing public criticism of teams, according to documents obtained by ESPN.

The league claims the report cards, which poll players on various aspects of working conditions, violate a CBA clause that says NFL owners and the union must “use reasonable efforts to curtail public comments by club personnel or players which express criticism of any club, its coach, or its operation and policy,” according to an August letter from the league’s management council to NFLPA general counsel Tom DePaso that was obtained by ESPN.

After months of discussions with the league after the letter, the NFLPA alerted its players of the grievance last week and said it’s “moving ahead with this year’s survey,” according to a union email obtained by ESPN.

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

Revisiting 5 of Chiefs’ biggest preseason questions

9. Can Patrick Mahomes master deep passing?

In recent years — without wide receiver Tyreek Hill — quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ effectiveness with deep vertical passes declined. With a new cast of downfield threats, there was hope Mahomes could get back to what he was doing earlier in his career.

The plan seems to be coming along. There has been an increase in explosive passes, but not all of them come from vertical plays downfield. The Chiefs have been using Worthy and Brown on horizontal routes like crossers to have them catch on the run and turn north.

Mahomes has been more aggressive as well. According to Next Gen Stats, Mahomes averages 8.1 intended air yards per attempt this year, tied for 17th of 36 quarterbacks. Last year, Mahomes had the third-lowest mark at 6.3 intended air yards per attempt. The increase shows the Chiefs are attacking downfield.

Thornton has been an upgrade over wide receiver Justin Watson as this team’s sacrificial deep-route runner. Worthy has improved on vertical routes. Against Buffalo, Brown was able to gain 4o yards on a deep corner route. Rice should get more vertical targets as he gets integrated back into the offense. The Chiefs’ ability to sprinkle in vertical passing has helped clear space for the offense.

Social media to make you think​

It’s official. Jim, @tonyromo and I will be in KC next week for #chiefs #colts .
That’s 4 straight KC games for us when you include Thanksgiving!

— Tracy Wolfson (@tracywolfson) November 13, 2025

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ews-11-14-sunday-is-a-must-win-for-the-chiefs

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs’ Dave Toub discusses kick returners, Harrison Butker’s progress

The Kansas City Chiefs — who find themselves in the AFC West’s third spot at 5-4 — now have little margin for error heading into Week 11’s road matchup against the Denver Broncos.

With every moment now so crucial, Kansas City’s special teams unit could easily determine which way the uneven season bounces. So before Thursday’s practice, assistant head coach and special teams coordinator Dave Toub took questions from local reporters — starting with those about his current kick returners.

In Kansas City’s last outing against the Buffalo Bills — a 28-21 loss in Week 9 — wide receiver Tyquan Thornton appeared to take over as the preferred kick returner. Thornton returned four kickoffs, while incumbent return man Nikko Remigio handled only one.

Toub was encouraged by what Thornton did in Buffalo, so we should expect to see kickoff alignments featuring him in Denver on Sunday.

“[In Buffalo,] we wanted certain guys to have the ball at certain times,” explained Toub. “So we tried to put guys in a position where we thought they were going to try to kick to us.

“Thornton was really good when we played last time. Four returns — I think he averaged like 32 yards per return. We had a nice counter where he almost popped the second one. So he was promising back there — and then Nikko did a hell of a job blocking. When he didn’t have the ball, he blocked really well — so it was a good combination.”

Toub clearly wants Thornton to be fielding the kicks, but he’s happy to have both players on the field.

“We wanted [Thornton] to have the ball,” he remarked. “Nikko? I felt good with him having it. too. I liked the tandem that we had back there.”

Placekicker Harrison Butker’s early performances have been among the season’s most scrutinized situations. But while the league’s highest-paid kicker missed at least one kick in each of the team’s first four games, he’s missed just one extra point in the five games since then. It’s helped that Kansas City has attempted only four field goals during those five matchups, with no attempt longer than 46 yards.

“He had a couple of good games in a row,” noted Toub. “That was great — and he had a really good practice [yesterday]; I thought it was his best Wednesday practice. The ball was flying good.

“I thought the rest might have helped him. We talked about how you’ve got to go back to work and he did a lot. I thought the break was really good for him because he looked good. He had two good games — and hopefully, we have this thing right.”

Toub feels good about Butker’s accuracy right now — and the spin on his kicks.

“The way the ball was rotating, coming off his foot,” said Toub, “he was banging it. It was true and straight — and you could just tell the difference. It was just a different Wednesday than we had seen, so it was good to see.”

When Kansas City’s special teams takes the field on Sunday, Toub sees an opportunity to play a substantial role in turning the season around.

“Our guys are ready,” he declared. “They’ll be ready for this game for sure. You can feel it already in practice, coming off a bye. They know the urgency. We’ve been there before [and] we have enough veterans. We know where we’re at. We know where we stand — and it’s an important game on the road. We’ll be ready.”

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...sses-kick-returners-harrison-butkers-progress

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 11/15: This will be the Broncos’ biggest game since Super Bowl 50

The latest​

NFL Week 11 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy tips | ESPN

What we’re hearing on the Chiefs: DT Chris Jones has recorded two sacks (97th in the NFL) and a pressure percentage of 9% (43rd in the league), but the Chiefs aren’t worried about his slow start. “Chris is always striving to do better every day. That’s what has made him such a good player,” coach Andy Reid said. “Again, he’s the guy that they’re going to focus on, and if you’re getting a double team, that’s who’s getting doubled. He’ll get his as we go forward, it’s just important that he stays consistent and keeps working hard.” — ESPN staff

Denver Broncos take AFC West lead into game against Kansas City Chiefs | USA Today

The Broncos are about to play the franchise’s biggest game in nearly a decade – since another signature defense carried Peyton Manning to a crown in Super Bowl 50 – and there’s great anticipation about whether they will pass this serious litmus test.

No, there’s no parade on tap. The Broncos can’t win the Super Bowl on Sunday.

Yet here come the Kansas City Chiefs.

And not just the typical Chiefs, who have owned the division with nine straight AFC West titles and almost never lose after a bye week. These are the desperate Chiefs (5-4), who have played in the last three Super Bowls but wouldn’t even be in the dance if the AFC playoffs started today. That makes them extra dangerous.

NFL Week 11 schedule rankings: Top 5 Sunday games with the best home crowds | The Athletic

1. Kansas City Chiefs (5-4) at Denver Broncos (8-2)

Our clubhouse leader for a few reasons. It’s hard to not have an amped-up home field amid a seven-game winning streak. Standing in the way of No. 8 is Denver’s dynastic nemesis. K.C. has seized the last nine AFC West titles, and it lifted the Lombardi Trophy three times along that run. There’s a visual synchronicity between the late-afternoon Colorado sunsets and the wall-to-wall orange wrapping Mile High. There’s spiritual alignment with the Broncos’ top-ranked pass rush and the crowd’s bellowing “in-com-plete” refrain. And there’s end-of-the-movie tension whenever Patrick Mahomes is in the building.

At 8-2, Sean Payton’s team is chasing the AFC’s top seed. That’s invaluable, as the Broncos are unbeaten at home through five tries. We can already hear Jim Nantz and Tony Romo straining their voices in the echoing altitude.

Chiefs just got the green light to bring Khalen Saunders back where he belongs | Arrowhead Addict

Khalen Saunders cleared waivers after being released by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

While Saunders has yet to find an official place to land, the Chiefs have to be considered among the favorites, given the need up front and their familiarity with one another. The Chiefs lost second-round pick Omarr Norman-Lott to ACL injury in the first half of the season, and will be reliant upon aging veterans to carry them through the rest of the season and beyond. Those names include Mike Pennel and Derrick Nnadi, among others.

Saunders first entered the NFL as the Chiefs’ third-round choice in the 2019 NFL Draft out of Western Illinois. General manager Brett Veach rolled the dice in that draft when taking Saunders, knowing the leap from the FCS level to the NFL is a massive one. Still, Saunders’ reputation as “The Aaron Donald of the FCS” was enough to interest the Chiefs.

Around the NFL​

Bill Belichick says he will not pursue any NFL head-coaching vacancies | NBC Sports

“I have great respect and genuinely care for the New York Giants organization and both the Mara and Tisch families,” Belichick said in a statement released by the program. “The New York Giants played an important role in my life and in my coaching journey. It was a privilege for me to work for the Mara family and be a member of Coach Parcells’ staff for over a decade. However, despite circulating rumors, I have not and will not pursue any NFL head coaching vacancies.

“Since arriving in Chapel Hill, my commitment to the UNC Football program has not wavered. We have tremendous support from the university, our alumni, and the entire Carolina community. My focus remains solely on continuing to improve this team, develop our players, and build a program that makes Tar Heel fans proud. . . . We’re on to Wake Forest.”

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

Chiefs’ Dave Toub discusses kick returners, Harrison Butker’s progress

In Kansas City’s last outing against the Buffalo Bills — a 28-21 loss in Week 9 — wide receiver Tyquan Thornton appeared to take over as the preferred kick returner. Thornton returned four kickoffs, while incumbent return man Nikko Remigio handled only one.

Toub was encouraged by what Thornton did in Buffalo, so we should expect to see kickoff alignments featuring him in Denver on Sunday.

“[In Buffalo,] we wanted certain guys to have the ball at certain times,” explained Toub. “So we tried to put guys in a position where we thought they were going to try to kick to us.

“Thornton was really good when we played last time. Four returns — I think he averaged like 32 yards per return. We had a nice counter where he almost popped the second one. So he was promising back there — and then Nikko did a hell of a job blocking. When he didn’t have the ball, he blocked really well — so it was a good combination.”

Toub clearly wants Thornton to be fielding the kicks, but he’s happy to have both players on the field.

“We wanted [Thornton] to have the ball,” he remarked. “Nikko? I felt good with him having it. too. I liked the tandem that we had back there.”

Social media to make you think​

Travis Kelce was joined by former #Chiefs TE Blake Bell as they spent their Friday evening watching Kansas High School Football Playoffs between Mill Valley & St. James Academy.

Former teammate Anthony Sherman is an assistant coach for St. James. #ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/gFB3uDnA3j

— Matt Foster (@MattFosterTV) November 15, 2025

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-the-broncos-biggest-game-since-super-bowl-50

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Broncos: 5 things to watch in Week 11’s critical AFC West game

On Sunday afternoon, the (5-4) Kansas City Chiefs will play the (8-2) Denver Broncos on Empower Field at Mile High. Kickoff is set for 3:25 p.m. Arrowhead Time. Now in third place in the AFC West, the Chiefs will take on the division leaders in what will be a critical game in how the playoffs will shape up.

The Broncos are coming off a grimy 10-7 win over the Las Vegas Raiders last Thursday, while the Chiefs are coming off a bye. Before the week off, Kansas City lost on the road 28-21 to the Buffalo Bills — a stinging defeat that pushed the Chiefs out of the current AFC playoff picture.

While Kansas City is having a down year by its own standards, Denver is in the best spot to win the AFC West it’s been in for a decade. We can expect both teams to make their best efforts.

Here are five things to watch

1. The Broncos’ pass rush​

Part of a talented defense, the pass rush is on an all-time tear. With an astonishing 46 sacks halfway through the season, Denver is headed toward breaking the NFL single-season record of 72 set by the 1985 Chicago Bears. This is not just a good unit — it is potentially an all-time unit.

Edge rusher Nik Bonnito leads the way with 9.5 sacks, followed by outside linebacker Jonathan Cooper with 7.5, defensive linemen Zach Allen with 6 and defensive tackle John Franklin-Myers with 4.5. Six other Broncos have more than one sack. Six more have at least half a sack.

The unit wins quickly, disrupts passing lanes and frustrates opposing quarterbacks.

For the Chiefs to find success, the offensive line must hold its own — but the Chiefs also need to find ways to quickly get the ball out of Mahomes’ hands, allowing them to take advantage of the Broncos’ aggressive nature.

2. Keeping a bad offense bad​

While Denver’s defense is elite, the offense has been lackluster in recent weeks. The Chiefs should be able to exploit it. The Broncos rank 17th in the league in points per game, averaging 23.5. The rushing attack has been fine — Denver ranks ninth in the NFL with 128.6 rushing yards per game — but over the past few weeks, the offense has had issues under center.

Quarterback Bo Nix is having a decent season, but he has thrown four interceptions in his last three games. In back-to-back weeks, the Broncos have put up just 18 points against the Houston Texans and 10 points versus the Raiders.

Nix ranks 27th in the NFL with an 85.7 passer rating, but he poses a threat as a runner, too.

The Chiefs’ defense has sometimes struggled this season. But on Sunday, they need to find a way to force a few turnovers so they can keep a bad offense down.

3. The Chiefs’ tackle situation​

Rookie left tackle Josh Simmons returned to the Chiefs during the bye week after missing four for personal reasons.

After a full week of practice, it appears that Simmons is poised to start the game. Given the prowess of the Broncos’ pass rush, his presence will be a plus. Swing tackle Jaylon Moore held his own during while filling in for Simmons — but against the Bills, his limitations were exposed as he struggled against pass rushers like defensive end Joey Bosa.

Before his hiatus, Simmons was on pace to be one of the league’s best rookie offensive linemen. But he has not seen live snaps since Week 5 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He will be worth monitoring.

The other offensive lineman to watch will be right tackle Jawaan Taylor, who suffered an ankle injury in Buffalo. In that game, Wanya Morris came in to take his place.

Taylor was a full participant in practice all week and had no injury designation on Friday’s injury report, but given his past injury issues — as well as Simmons’ unknown readiness to play again — Moore must be ready to play at a moment’s notice.

4. Attacking the Broncos with speed​

Running the ball is often a great method to stifle pass rushers, but the Broncos have a top-10 run defense — and the Chiefs will once again be without starting running back Isiah Pacheco (Knee). To keep the Broncos honest, the Chiefs may look to attack the perimeters and the middle of the field with the offense’s collective speed.

Wide receiver Xavier Worthy (ankle) was a late addition to the injury report on Thursday, but he will be full go for the game. This week, his ability to stretch the defense will be important: he could be a big factor in the jet-sweep game as well as keeping Denver’s edge rushers at bay with the threat of reverse looks and other plays designed to break outside contain.

The Chiefs’ offense is at its best when plays are hitting over the middle of the field, so watch for the unit to attack that area of the field with speed. This week, the coaches need to create quick-passing looks for quarterback Patrick Mahomes that will deploy playmakers between the hashmarks.

5. Andy Reid after a bye​

It’s a tale as old as time: Chiefs’ head coach Andy Reid, the league’s best offensive mind, had two weeks to plot and plan for putting up points against the best defense in the league.

With a career 22-4 record after the bye week (and a 6-1 record with Patrick Mahomes), Reid’s squad will need a strong game plan to win the game — and get Kansas City’s season back on track.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...6468/chiefs-broncos-5-things-to-watch-week-11

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs-Broncos 5 questions: Is Sunday’s game really a playoff matchup?

On Sunday, the Kansas City Chiefs face the Denver Broncos. We welcome Ian St. Clair of Mile High Report — our sister SB Nation site covering the Broncos— for Five Questions with the Enemy.

---

1. With the Broncos at 8-2, do their fans think they are a Super Bowl contender?​

After their showing against the Las Vegas Raiders on “Thursday Night Football” — especially on offense, there is a sense that the sky is falling. While the Broncos got the win and improved to 8-2, fans aren’t buying into the offense. The defense is the best in the NFL, but fans feel like Denver can’t keep winning with the offense struggling through the first three quarters. Until the offense demonstrates that it can play consistently over four quarters, fans won’t feel that this is a true Super Bowl contender.

2. The offense has struggled through most games, with Bo Nix periodically making great plays to help the team win. Is he the quarterback the team needs, or will he be the reason the team fails?​

Despite what some in the fan base think, Nix is the reason this team has achieved four fourth-quarter comebacks during its seven-game winning streak. He’s also going to be the quarterback who gets the team where it expects to be: an AFC West championship and a deep run in the playoffs. And it’s not just me who believes that. Sean Payton does, too. As long as Payton “Bolieves,” Broncos fans should, too. Can he play better? Absolutely. I also think he will.

3. Do you believe the Broncos and Chiefs have to treat Sunday’s matchup like a playoff game? ​

From the standpoint of the Broncos, Sunday’s game is the game. Based on the percentages, if Denver wins, it’ll likely win the AFC West.

Current division odds (via CBS Sports)

• Denver: 52.7%
• Kansas City: 22.4%

If Denver wins

• Denver: 70.6%
• Kansas City: 7.9%

If Kansas City wins

• Denver: 36.5%
• Kansas City: 35.2%

(basically a three-way tie, including the Chargers)

Based on that, this is the biggest game for the Broncos since Super Bowl 50.

4. If you could add one Chiefs player (not named Patrick Mahomes) to the Broncos, who would it be?​

I’d like to see Chris Jones along the Broncos’ defensive front. The idea of him and Zach Allen together, on top of the best pass-rushing duo in the NFL — Nik Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper — would be incredible to watch.

5. Despite a better record, the Broncos are the underdog on Sunday. What will they have to do to win this game?​

I’m a little surprised at the spread — especially with how the Broncos defense has played against Mahomes and Kansas City in recent seasons. This is clearly based on the current showing of Denver’s offense. To win, Denver must play a clean game, minimizing penalties and winning the turnover battle; Mahomes and the Chiefs don’t need any help. Defensively, it must do what it’s done all season. Nix and the offense must start fast, run the football, and make plays in the passing game when they’re there. Another thing I think will help the Broncos is playing at home. Mile High is going to be rocking on Sunday, and it should be a fun game to watch.

---

Be sure to check out the answers I gave to their questions by clicking here.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ions-is-sundays-game-really-a-playoff-matchup

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs’ left guard Kingsley Suamataia left Broncos loss with concussion

The Kansas City Chiefs’ first second-half possession in Sunday’s 22-19 loss to the Denver Broncos ended with an interception deep in the Broncos’ territory. Taking a near-certain three points off the board for the Chiefs — and then watching Denver march down the field for a touchdown — proved costly in a tight game.

It turned out to be more costly than we realized at first.

During the interception return, left guard Kingsley Suamataia took a shot — and left the game. The Chiefs later announced that the second-year pro was in the league’s concussion protocol, ruling him out for the remainder of the game.

But he was the only Kansas City player who was injured in the loss.

“Really, Kingsley was the only one who got hurt,” head coach Andy Reid told reporters after the game. “On the interception there, he hit his head on the turf.”

Suamataia will now need to complete the league’s five-step return-to-play criteria before he can get back on the field. That ultimately requires clearance from an independent neurological consultant not associated with the team. We’ll be closely monitoring his status during this week’s practices, since even limited participation will be a sign that he is progressing through the requirements.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ey-suamataia-left-denver-loss-with-concussion

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

5 things we learned from the Chiefs’ ugly road loss to the Broncos

The Kansas City Chiefs’ just aren’t getting it done this season.

The Week 11 road matchup with the Denver Broncos was as close as it gets to a must-win game in the regular season. But on Sunday afternoon, Denver did what Kansas City couldn’t: move the ball when it mattered. The Broncos were rewarded with a crucial 22-19 victory that put the Chiefs at 5-5 for the season.

Here are five things we learned from a disappointing defeat.

1. The Chiefs aren’t closing out their games​

Sunday’s biggest indictment came from the Broncos’ head coach Sean Payton. With the game tied at halftime, he said he liked his team’s chances to win because Kansas City was a “first-half team.”

Let that soak in. This season, the team is 0-5 in one-score games.

While Sunday’s contest was filled with deflating moments, the worst of them came at the end.

• With the game tied, quarterback Patrick Mahomes threw an interception in the red zone.
• The Chiefs led by three points and had the ball with eight minutes left in the game — and went three-and-out.
• The Chiefs had the ball with the game tied and four minutes left — and went three-and-out again.
• On a crucial third-and-6 on the final drive of the game, linebacker Nick Bolton was covering Denver’s top wide receiver Courtland Sutton — and gave up the first down.

Whether it is from personnel, coaching or scheme, the Chiefs are no longer a team you have any faith in pulling out a win.

2. The Chiefs need to shake things up​

For the team to play so poorly after its bye week was simply embarrassing. We can argue about the specific changes that should be made, but the team looks (and feels) stale from the top down.

Head coach Andy Reid has earned every single one of his accolades. He deserves to be considered one of the greatest head coaches in the history of the game.

But let’s be honest: the Chiefs organization is filled with a bunch of yes men. There is something to be said about having people around who push you with honest feedback — and challenge you to be better. Much was made about the tension between Reid and former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. As football fans like to say, “steel sharpens steel” — and it might be that friction isn’t always a bad thing.

The Chiefs’ coaching staff is made up of old horses with a lot of experience — and there is value in that — but these days, there aren’t a lot of new ideas coming out of Arrowhead. Maybe there should be.

3. There must be some hard conversations at Arrowhead​

At the top of this list is a serious talk that Reid needs to have with special teams coordinator (and assistant head coach) Dave Toub.

The special teams unit has been a penalty-ridden embarrassment in 2025. Toub’s unit exemplifies one of the team’s core problems: its play is sloppy — and there is no accountability. The unit is allowed to continue shooting the team in the foot, while Toub is never close to the hot seat.

I don’t care if Toub is buddies with the head coach. Even if it is a small and symbolic move, the assistant head coach title should be taken away from him.

What about offensive coordinator Matt Nagy? I don’t care how talented Denver’s defense is. Continued mental errors and penalties by players like Jawaan Taylor are inexcusable. Mahomes has to get better at throwing the deep ball — and stop making mistakes when he gets frustrated. If he has more talent at wide receiver than he has ever had before, then why does he still feel like he has to play hero ball on a play-by-play basis? Nagy needs to hold his players accountable, too.

The team also needs someone who will speak up when Reid abandons the running game — someone who can bring him back to center. And if Reid isn’t willing to listen, then that is yet another hard conversation that needs to take place.

I’m not calling for coaching changes. But these issues must be addressed. And we don’t just need conversations. We need answers.

4. The Chiefs need more impact players and fewer role guys​

This roster feels like it was built around the core players of the 2023 championship team.

The only problem is that some of them just aren’t the same players they used to be. Kansas City is paying for past performance — not for what these players will do in the future — and it’s hurting them.

• Defensive tackle Chris Jones is still a good player, but he is not playing up to his $23.6 million cap hit — let alone the $44.9 million he will count against the cap in 2026.
• There is no reason for placekicker Harrison Butker to carry a cap hit of $7.3 million, making him the league’s highest-paid kicker.
• I love tight end Travis Kelce — and he is still playing at a high level — but his $19.8 million cap hit is hard to swallow.

Someday, all of these players will be in the team’s Ring of Honor. But they’re being paid for being yesterday’s legends — not for winning games today.

The Chiefs need to be drafting the stars of tomorrow, instead of accessories for guys who have lost a step.

5. Tyquan Thornton is awesome​

In a game with few bright spots, wide receiver Tyquan Thornton continues to prove that he needs more playing time. He routinely exhibits the kind of gritty effort that is sorely missing from this team.

INTERCEPTED@Broncos pick off Mahomes in the red zone pic.twitter.com/sLoB6xM3rj

— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) November 16, 2025

The Chiefs look like a former champion who has been in so many brawls that all the fight has gone out of them. Somehow, they need to find the dawg that used to be part of their collective identity. Thornton is showing them what that looks like.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...hings-we-learned-from-week-11-loss-to-broncos

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs Playoff Picture: Making postseason still in the team’s control

The Kansas City Chiefs are now 5-5 after Week 11’s bitter 22-19 road loss to the Denver Broncos.

Seven games remain in the team’s 2025 schedule. On Sunday, Kansas City will host the Indianapolis Colts at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, play the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on Thanksgiving evening, return home for matchups with the Houston Texans and the Los Angeles Chargers, travel to Nashville to face the Tennessee Titans, return home for their final regular-season home game against the Broncos and close out the season at Allegiant Stadium against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Let’s take a look at the team’s current playoff picture. As we always do, we’ll use The Athletic’s playoff calculator — an update to the New York Times playoff calculator we’ve used for several years — to help us project what could happen. You can learn more about how it works by clicking here.

The Chiefs’ playoff picture​

As it stands right now, Kansas City has a 57% chance to make the playoffs (down from 75% a week ago), a 10% chance to win the AFC West (25% last week), less than a 1% chance to earn the AFC’s single bye (down from 4%), and a 4% chance to win Super Bowl LX (down from 7%).

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One week ago, these numbers weren’t encouraging. But Sunday’s loss has pushed them down the mountainside. While the team still has a better-than-even chance to make the postseason, the Chiefs’ opportunity to claim a 10th-straight AFC West title is on life support — and they can pretty much kiss the No. 1 seed goodbye.

Kansas City was not only unable to help itself over the weekend, but also had no assistance from any other team. If the season ended today, the Chiefs would be in the AFC’s ninth spot; just seven qualify for the playoffs. In Week 11, only one of the eight teams ahead of Kansas City — the Chargers — had the courtesy to lose a game. Unfortunately, they lost to another team in front of the Chiefs: the Jacksonville Jaguars.

And oh, yes… the Colts didn’t win, either — but that was because they were on their bye week.

The playoff calculator allows us to assume the outcomes of remaining games and see how it changes the odds.

Let’s take a look.

How the Chiefs can make the playoffs​

Yes… Kansas City is still in control of making the dance. Winning all of its remaining games will give the team a playoff berth. Losing their matchups with either the Colts or the Cowboys only causes the Chiefs to miss the postseason in about 1% of cases. Losing one game to any other AFC team would make Kansas City miss the playoffs in no more than 6% of all scenarios.

Losing two games makes it more difficult to make the postseason — but not impossible. Dropping games to Indianapolis and Dallas would give the Chiefs about a three-in-four shot at the playoffs — but most other sets of two losses would give Kansas City something around a 50/50 opportunity to make the dance.

How the Chiefs can win the AFC West​

The team no longer controls its own destiny in the division race. But winning out would give Kansas City a 57% chance to win its 10th straight division title. On top of that 7-0 finish, the Chiefs would need the Chargers to lose not only to the Chiefs in Week 15, but also drop a matchup to either the Raiders, Eagles, Cowboys, Texans or Broncos. Then Denver would have to lose to Kansas City in their Week 17 rematch — and have two losses among their games with the Commanders, Raiders, Packers, Jaguars or Chargers.

As you can see, that’s not impossible. But it’s not terribly likely, either — which is why winning out only gives Kansas City about a three-in-five chance to take the division. Both Los Angeles and Denver will have byes in Week 12, so we’ll have to wait a week before either team can give the Chiefs any breathing room.

How the Chiefs can get a first-round bye​

Too much has gone wrong. If the team makes the playoffs, it will almost certainly have to play in the Wild Card round. Even if Kansas City wins out, there’s only about a 1-in-25 chance it will hold the No. 1 seed.

The bottom line​

The Chiefs’ postseason chances are looking more and more grim. But the team can make the playoffs without any outside help — and taking care of its own business would give it a decent chance to once again win the division. But that’s the problem: in the last two weeks, it hasn’t been easy for Kansas City to take care of business.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ture-making-postseason-still-in-teams-control

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

NFL Power Rankings Week 12 Roundup: Chiefs drop after loss to Broncos

The Kansas City Chiefs’ 22-19 loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 11 felt like a dagger to the Chiefs’ hopes for a division title. It also made a significant impact on the perception of them across the NFL: every site moved Kansas City down in the latest power rankings ahead of Week 12.

Here’s this week’s sampling:

---

NFL.com: 15​

(Down from 7)

Hearing Patrick Mahomes almost acknowledge that the AFC West is gone was downright shocking. Yeah, he’s speaking reality, and of course Kansas City could make the playoffs as a dangerous wild-card team. But to hear Mahomes all but admit defeat in the Chiefs’ quest for a 10th straight division title was jarring to my ears. They’re ninth in the AFC playoff picture, and they’re staring at four straight pretty tough games, starting with the Colts at Arrowhead and the Thanksgiving game in Dallas four days later. We’re so used to the Chiefs coming out of the bye week razor sharp, but they never looked completely dialed in against Denver, even after taking the lead early in the fourth quarter. There’s still a playoff-caliber roster here, but multiple losing streaks in a single season is an identity crisis for Kansas City.

— Eric Edholm

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ESPN: 13​

(Down from 12)

Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Andy Reid

The Chiefs have plenty of talent on their roster, and this season was supposed to be about the offense returning to a dominant unit. But Reid’s game plans in the past two games, losses to the Bills and Broncos following a bye week, have been perplexing. Reid needs to get quarterback Patrick Mahomes in rhythm quicker, and his playcalling needs to be more balanced and diverse to outwit opposing defenses over the second half.

— Nate Taylor

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The Athletic: 16​

(Down from 12)

A suggestion: Start sweating

The three teams currently in the AFC wild-card positions — the Chargers, Bills and Jaguars — have a win over Kansas City this year, and Sunday’s loss dropped the Chiefs four games behind the Broncos in the AFC West. Plus, the 8-2 Colts — coming off a bye, no less — are up next. The streak of 10 straight trips to the postseason is in jeopardy.

— Josh Kendall

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Sports Illustrated: 15​

(Down from 11)

Column on the Chiefs being at .500 and possibly missing the playoffs…and why that’s all a good thing.

— Conor Orr

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Pro Football Talk: 18​

(Down from 13)

Forget about the AFC West. That Week 6 Monday night loss to the Jaguars could be the thing that keeps them out of the playoffs entirely.

— Mike Florio

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CBSSports.com: 14​

(Down from 10)

The division title is probably out of their reach, so it’s time to focus on winning games and getting into the playoffs. Right now, they would be out.

— Pete Prisco

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Yahoo! Sports: 10​

(Down from 5)

The Chiefs still aren’t getting enough big plays. They had one 61-yard gain to Tyquan Thornton but no other play of more than 21 yards. It would be nice to have a running back who could make a big play, but all they have are plodders. Maybe getting Xavier Worthy involved would help.

— Frank Schwab

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The Sporting News: 16​

(Down from 12)

The Chiefs don’t need to be in full panic mode yet, but they can probably say good bye to their shot at 10 consecutive division titles and may need to run the table, starting with the mighty Colts in Week 12, just to ensure a wild card.

— Vinnie Iyer

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USA Today: 9​

(Down from 8)

Their luck had to run out at some point. There’s a case to be made that this year’s K.C. roster is better than last year’s. But last year’s Chiefs were 12-0 in one-score games, while this year’s squad is 0-5 in such scenarios. Those rested Colts come to Arrowhead on Sunday.

— Nate Davis

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FOX Sports: 16​

(Down from 13)

They are still loaded with talent and experience and every one of their losses has been to a playoff-bound team by one score. But the reality is they are what their 5-5 record says they are.

— Ralph Vacchiano

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...fl-power-rankings-week-12-roundup-chiefs-drop

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs Kingdom in Broncos Country: My experience in Denver

Arrowhead Pride’s Dakota Watson was in the stands for the Kansas City Chiefs’ 22-19 loss to the Denver Broncos on Sunday. We asked him to report on his experience in Colorado’s mile-high city.

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I wanted this article to be different. I hoped to write about the Chiefs reclaiming AFC West glory. I hoped to write about the Broncos’ fans leaving their own stadium with their heads low — and doubts about both their second-year quarterback and their place in the AFC playoff picture.

I hoped for what we used to believe was a given: head coach Andy Reid’s dominance after a bye week.

Instead, it was I who left the stadium with my own doubts about a Chiefs team that has spoiled me with their dominance over the past eight seasons. It was I who struggled to defend the performance of an inept Chiefs’ offense to the Denver faithful around me. It was I who just tried to hold my head low and get as far away from Empower Field at Mile High Stadium as fast as humanly possible, while I heard chants of “Chiefs suck” rain down around me.

While the team’s performance has sometimes been difficult to watch this season, my doubts and frustration about this Chiefs team did not stop me from traveling roughly 600 miles to Denver, Colorado for what felt like the renewal of one of the great NFL rivalries.

The stadium experience​

Mile High is the sixth stadium in the NFL that I have visited. Overall, I would rate the stadium as positive and right in the middle of the pack among personal experiences. It was Denver’s “Salute To Service” game. Throughout the day, there were great moments honoring the men and women of the United States military.

The public transit options to arrive or depart the stadium are strong. We utilized the RTD (Regional Transportation District) public rail system, which was very affordable and easy to use — even though the train was naturally crowded after the game. As much as I love GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, the public transportation options in Kansas City are lacking compared to other cities — but on the other hand, that contributes to Arrowhead’s amazing tailgate atmosphere.

The pregame festivities in the parking lot and areas surrounding the stadium were lacking compared to the Arrowhead experience. There were certainly tailgaters and nice setups, but nowhere near what I’m accustomed to; the smell of barbecue wasn’t strong near the stadium.

The stadium feels somewhat dated, although that didn’t dampen the experience. Based solely on my experience, it is surprising that Denver is seeking to build a new stadium. I feel this has more to do with new ownership than the actual quality of the current stadium.

Food and beverage options were strong: there was good local fare, as well as a five-dollar menu that was affordable and higher quality than expected at a stadium. Before the game, the Broncos had a flyover of four F-35 fighter jets as well as a team of skydivers that land in the stadium before each game. It was a unique and exciting experience to see the skills (and nerve) of the skydivers.

With Arrowhead being my home stadium, I have yet to experience crowd noise elsewhere that comes close to what we hear in Kansas City. Admittedly, being in the upper level was a little unnerving with the “stomp” and shaking of the seats and concourse; at that point, I was definitely trusting the building’s structural integrity!

The Broncos build their homefield advantage on the back of the city’s mile-high status. Nearly all videoboard material and clips to fire up the home crowd boast the elevation in Colorado. Speaking as someone who hiked the surrounding areas the day before the game, the altitude is no joke! I feel it truly is an advantage for the home team (although it is something that the Chiefs — being a division opponent — should be accustomed to).

“Chiefs fatigue” is real​

Across the NFL landscape, “Chiefs fatigue” is rampant. Everyone hates a winner, and Kansas City has been king of the AFC West for nearly a decade. This was certainly palpable in Denver — more so than any other city I’ve been to as a visiting fan.

We spent the whole weekend in our Chiefs gear — and we did receive some ribbing from the Denver faithful. From getting threatened to be run over in parking lots (I think she was joking) to being told we were lost (or maybe it was to “get lost”) at restaurants, wearing the Arrowhead in Broncos’ Country does not go unnoticed. After all, this is a rivalry that goes back decades, and Denver used to be the more successful playoff team.

For the most part, the Broncos fans we encountered were respectful and welcoming. We encountered fans who gave us tips on navigating the area and ways to enjoy the pregame festivities, as well as fans who gave the Chiefs their flowers.

However, even with the overall civility, Chiefs fatigue was clearly present. We heard it on local sports talk radio. We felt it in the air each time tight end Travis Kelce caught a reception — and especially when he scored the go-ahead touchdown. (The Broncos’ PA announcer did not mention that Kelce had set Kansas City’s franchise record for touchdowns scored). I could feel the tension in the air from the fans around me when quarterback Patrick Mahomes had the ball in the fourth quarter.

The conspiracy that NFL officiating is favoring Kansas City is alive and well, at least for the group of fans that were around me; it is a real thing despite the horrible or missed calls that happen in every NFL game. The Denver fans near me complained about every call in the Chiefs’ favor — along with every perceived non-call. There was a strong feeling from these fans that the officiating favored Mahomes.

A rivalry renewed​

Walking away from the stadium after the 22-19 defeat, you could feel the excitement in the air from Denver fans. After a game that increased Denver’s opportunity for its first AFC West title since 2015, they truly believe the tide has turned.

I did not meet one person who doubts Broncos’ quarterback Bo Nix. I did hear some criticism of head coach Sean Payton — although he is given a lot of credit for resetting the culture. But it was clear that these fans love their team — and have honest hopes for a Super Bowl in February.

Kansas City dominated Denver by winning 16 consecutive games from 2015 to 2023. Now that the Broncos have won two of the last three — although many fans believe it should have been all three due to last season’s blocked field goal — the rivalry has been renewed.

It’s true: the Broncos have a sizable lead for the division. But Chiefs’ postseason hopes are alive. There is much more football to be played in 2025 — including a rematch at Arrowhead Stadium, where the Broncos have not tasted victory since 2015.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...om-in-broncos-country-my-experience-in-denver