Kansas City Chiefs' Offseason: Key Decisions Ahead

The Kansas City Chiefs experienced a disappointing 2025 season, finishing with a 6-11 record and missing the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. The team's struggles were exacerbated by a season-ending torn ACL injury to quarterback Patrick Mahomes in Week 15, which occurred during a three-game losing streak. This injury has raised concerns about Mahomes' availability for the start of the 2026 season, prompting the Chiefs to reassess their roster and strategy heading into the offseason.

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The Chiefs face significant roster challenges, particularly in their secondary and running back positions. Three key defensive backs—cornerbacks Jaylen Watson and Trent McDuffie, along with safety Bryan Cook—are impending free agents, while cornerback Joshua Williams is also at risk of leaving. General Manager Brett Veach has a history of successfully drafting defensive backs, but retaining these players may prove difficult given the team's current salary cap situation.

Assessing Chiefs Secondary Heading into the Offseason

In the running back room, both Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt are free agents, and their performances in 2025 were underwhelming, contributing to the Chiefs' lack of a consistent run game. The Chiefs ranked among the lowest in rushing yards and yards per carry, indicating a pressing need for improvement in this area.

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As the Chiefs prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, they hold the ninth overall pick, which presents an opportunity to acquire immediate-impact talent. Analysts suggest that the Chiefs should prioritize a running back, with prospects like Jeremiyah Love being highlighted as potential selections. Love's impressive college performance makes him an attractive option to bolster the Chiefs' backfield.

Chiefs Projected to Make Controversial Decision With Top-10 Draft Pick

Additionally, the Chiefs may look to revamp their offensive strategy by hiring a new offensive coordinator, as current coordinator Matt Nagy's contract has expired. This change could help alleviate some of the pressure on Mahomes and improve the overall offensive efficiency.

Chiefs Offseason To-Do List

Head coach Andy Reid emphasized the need for a more balanced offensive approach, stating, “We’ve got to run the ball more efficiently, especially on first or second down… just to stay positive with that.” This sentiment reflects the Chiefs' recognition of their offensive shortcomings and the necessity for strategic adjustments.

Brashard Smith's Offseason Already Off to Better Start Than Expected

Critics argue that the Chiefs' reliance on Mahomes has been detrimental, as the team has not adequately surrounded him with sufficient offensive weapons. The lack of a robust running game and the potential departure of key players could further hinder the team's performance in the upcoming season.

How Mahomes Is Still Critical Piece of Chiefs' Offseason Decisions

The Chiefs' offseason will be pivotal in determining their future success. Key decisions regarding free agents, potential trades, and draft strategies will shape the team's roster. The Chiefs must navigate these challenges carefully to ensure they can compete effectively in the 2026 season, especially with Mahomes' recovery timeline looming over their plans.

How Mahomes Is Still Critical Piece of Chiefs' Offseason Decisions

• “So we’ve got to run the ball more efficiently, especially on first or second down on those run downs [and] in those run situations, just to stay positive with that.” — Andy Reid, Head Coach

Chiefs Projected to Make Controversial Decision With Top-10 Draft Pick

• “I mean, obviously, I think the long term, I want to be ready for Week 1. The doctor said that I could be, but I can't predict what's going to happen throughout the process,” — Patrick Mahomes, Quarterback

How Chiefs, Mahomes Are Navigating Critical Offseason

In summary, the Kansas City Chiefs are at a crossroads, needing to make critical decisions that will impact their ability to return to playoff contention in the 2026 season.

Assessing Chiefs Secondary Heading into the Offseason