Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Patrick Mahomes Admits Chiefs' Problem After Missing NFL Playoffs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jan 15, 2026 8:12 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs failed to make the playoffs for the first time in the Patrick Mahomes era, finishing with a 6-11 record. They lost their last six games of the season and ended up third in the AFC West.

Mahomes' season-ending injury in Week 15 certainly didn't help. The star quarterback suffered a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee against the Los Angeles Chargers and needed surgery to repair the issue.

The Chiefs quarterback recorded 3,587 passing yards and 22 touchdowns, along with 422 rushing yards and five scores on the ground. So, his absence was certainly felt by the Chiefs.

Speaking to reporters in his first press conference since his injury, though, Mahomes admitted that the team's "compounding mistakes" were what really doomed them.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (left) and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (right).Denny Medley, Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Mahomes specifically pointed out their offensive inconsistencies as a major culprit, adding that he was part of the problem.

"For myself, I look at the red zone interceptions I threw," Mahomes shared, according to Charles Goldman of A to Z Sports. "I think offensively we weren't consistent enough."

Mahomes threw 11 interceptions in 14 games during the 2025 season, five of which came in the red zone. That said, the two-time NFL MVP emphasized that he needs to work on his game. He also encouraged his Chiefs teammates to step up as well.

"We've got to be better. That starts with me," Mahomes stated. "We're all motivated to be better next year."

For now, Mahomes' focus is on his recovery. He said in the same press conference that he and the Chiefs have a plan in place when it comes to his rehab, and that his goal is to be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: