2025 AFC West Preview: Kansas City Chiefs Football

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs enter the 2025 NFL season with their championship core intact, bolstered by deeper depth and elevated expectations. After falling short of a Super Bowl repeat, the defending AFC champions are poised for another title run.

Mahomes remains the driving force

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes continues to lead the offense with unmatched improvisational flair and elite playmaking. The coaching staff prioritized protecting him and diversifying his supporting cast during the offseason.

Kelce’s Potential Farewell

Tight end Travis Kelce, now 35 and in the final year of his contract, arrives at camp lighter and sharper. Though his 2024 production dipped, his leadership and seam-running ability remain central to Kansas City’s red-zone attack.

Rice Returns Amid Uncertainty

Wide receiver Rashee Rice is back from a torn PCL that sidelined him last season. While his rehab has progressed, a scheduled disciplinary hearing on September 30 could result in a suspension. Rice’s availability will be a major variable in how explosive the passing game can be.

Receiver Room Rebalanced

The Chiefs re-signed Hollywood Brown to bring vertical speed, and are counting on JuJu Smith‑Schuster, Kelce, and second-year man Xavier Worthy to manage the field. Running backs Elijah Mitchell and Isiah Pacheco round out a balanced offensive attack, with rookie Jalen Royals and convert Brashard Smith adding flexibility. Gardner Minshew provides veteran depth under center.

Offensive Line Overhaul

After Mahomes faced relentless pressure in the Super Bowl, the franchise added tackle Josh Simmons in the draft and signed veteran Jaylon Moore. Guard Trey Smith also received a new deal, aiming to solidify the interior.

Defense Built for Depth and Disruption

On defense, Chris Jones remains a pressure force at defensive tackle, while George Karlaftis secured a four-year, $93 million extension. Rookies Omarr Norman‑Lott and Ashton Gillotte provide rotation depth. In the secondary, shutdown corner Trent McDuffie leads the secondary, and cornerbacks Kristian Fulton, Jaylen Watson, and Joshua Williams add reliable depth. The unit hopes to surpass last year’s top-five finish.

Blueprint for a Lombardi Return

Kansas City’s return to the Super Bowl hinges on:

1. Consistently protecting Mahomes.
2. Keeping Kelce healthy and influential.
3. Managing Rice’s return and any suspension cleanly.
4. Getting meaningful contributions from rookies and newcomers.
5. Generating turnovers and pressure on defense.

Key Matchups on the 2025 Schedule

The following key regular-season games accurately reflect the Chiefs’ schedule:

• Week 1 – Sept. 5 (Friday): at Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, Brazil
• Week 2 – Sept. 14 (Sunday): vs. Philadelphia Eagles (Super Bowl rematch)
• Week 3 – Sept. 21: at New York Giants
• Week 4 – Sept. 28: vs. Baltimore Ravens
• Week 5 – Oct. 6 (Monday Night): at Jacksonville Jaguars
• Week 6 – Oct. 12 (Sunday Night): vs. Detroit Lions
• Week 7 – Oct. 19: vs. Las Vegas Raiders
• Week 8 – Oct. 27 (Monday Night): vs. Washington Commanders
• Week 9 – Nov. 2: at Buffalo Bills
• Week 10 – Bye
• Week 11 – Nov. 16: at Denver Broncos
• Week 12 – Nov. 23: vs. Indianapolis Colts
• Week 13 – Nov. 27 (Thanksgiving): at Dallas Cowboys
• Week 14 – Dec. 7: vs. Houston Texans
• Week 15 – Dec. 14: vs. Los Angeles Chargers
• Week 16 – Dec. 21: at Tennessee Titans
• Week 17 – Dec. 25 (Christmas Night): vs. Denver Broncos
• Week 18 – Jan. 3/4: at Las Vegas Raiders (flex TBD)

Final Word

The Chiefs’ 2025 season hinges on refinement, resilience, and reliance on their core. With Mahomes, Kelce, a fortified defense, and a deeper receiving corps, they remain championship threats. But how Rice, the O-line, and new contributors perform under pressure will decide if Kansas City earns a fourth Lombardi in six years.