Why These Playoffs Should Give Chiefs Hope

With the Chiefs missing the playoffs, many believed that it could be a changing of the guard in the AFC, as multiple quarterbacks had an opportunity to elevate themselves into another tier with a Super Bowl run.

Josh Allen was at the top of that list, as he is universally viewed as a top-two quarterback in the NFL, challenging Patrick Mahomes for the top spot in league circles. The 29-year-old quarterback has surpassed the three-time Super Bowl MVP in several evaluators' assessments, but Allen's performance in the 33-30 loss against the Denver Broncos was jarring. He committed four turnovers - two interceptions and two fumbles - which proved costly.

Additionally, Justin Herbert and C.J. Stroud were pitiful in their postseason appearances. Herbert has yet to win a playoff game in his first six years as a starter, and had a great opportunity to achieve that feat against a young and vulnerable New England Patriots team. The Los Angeles Chargers' defense allowed 16 points, but Herbert and the offense could only muster three points. Meanwhile, Stroud, in two playoff games, committed seven turnovers - five interceptions and two fumbles - proving to be the Texans' weak link.

Drake Maye has established himself as the next man up in the quarterback discussion, which will be something to watch for next season for the Chiefs.

Kansas City is Flawed, But May Not Be as Far Away as Originally Thought

As mentioned, quarterback play left a lot to be desired at times, but if anything else was apparent, it was that most teams in the playoff field have clear blemishes. The Seattle Seahawks are the one team that does not possess an overbearing weakness, as the presumed shortcoming was Sam Darnold, who erased the concerns surrounding his performance in the playoffs.

Because the Chiefs will be selecting in the top 10 each round in this upcoming draft, they have a chance to quickly refurbish their roster with elite, young talent.