The Kansas City Chiefs enter the 2025 NFL season as the clear favorites to win the AFC West once again. With superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes leading the offense and head coach Andy Reid still calling the shots, the team is aiming for its ninth consecutive division title and a fourth Super Bowl appearance in six years.
But while the Chiefs remain the team to beat on paper, two growing concerns could threaten their dominant run. Despite a strong core and championship pedigree, questions around their wide receiver group and offensive line could open the door for rivals like the Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos to challenge their crown.
Here’s a closer look at why the Chiefs are still on top and why they may not stay there if these two issues aren’t fixed fast.
Chiefs Remain the Team to Beat in the AFC West
When you have Patrick Mahomes, you’re always in contention. Since becoming the full-time starter in 2018, Mahomes has led the Chiefs to six straight AFC Championship Games and three Super Bowl titles. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs has set a new standard for quarterback excellence.
Alongside Mahomes, head coach Andy Reid remains one of the league’s most respected offensive minds. His ability to design creative schemes and adapt to defenses gives Kansas City an edge, even when the roster changes around him.
On defense, coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has built a unit that has become faster, younger, and more aggressive each year. In 2024, the Chiefs finished among the top five defenses in the NFL in both points allowed and total yards, a major reason they were able to win the Super Bowl again.
With this core leadership in place, the Chiefs are still considered the AFC West frontrunners. Sportsbooks have them listed as the favorites, and analysts across the league still project Kansas City as a serious title contender.
Problem #1: Wide Receiver Uncertainty After Offseason Departures
One of the biggest concerns heading into the 2025 season is the wide receiver room. The team lost two of its most productive pass-catchers from the 2024 campaign in free agency, leaving Mahomes with a less experienced and less proven group of targets.
While tight end Travis Kelce remains Mahomes’ favorite target, he turns 36 this season and can’t carry the entire passing game alone. In the past, players like Tyreek Hill and JuJu Smith-Schuster helped stretch the field and create space for Kelce to operate. Without consistent weapons on the outside, opposing defenses could start to double Kelce more frequently.
The Chiefs did sign a few young receivers and drafted a promising rookie, but none have yet proven they can be a true No. 1 option. Rashee Rice showed flashes in 2024, but legal issues in the offseason have raised doubts about his availability. Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Skyy Moore have yet to make a big impact, and the team’s success may now rely on their development.
If this group cannot separate from defenders and stretch the field, Mahomes may find himself limited, forcing more check-downs and fewer explosive plays.
Problem #2: Offensive Line Needs to Protect Mahomes Better
Another major issue is the offensive line, which saw key changes during the offseason. While Mahomes is known for his ability to make plays under pressure, he still needs time in the pocket to operate efficiently.
Last season, the Chiefs’ line gave up more pressure than expected in critical games, including during the playoffs. While Mahomes’ quick release helped limit sacks, the number of quarterback hits and hurries was among the highest in his career.
The team made some adjustments by drafting a new right tackle and moving around pieces on the interior line. However, chemistry and consistency remain concerns, especially in a division with strong pass rushers like Joey Bosa (Chargers), Maxx Crosby (Raiders), and Baron Browning (Broncos).
If the offensive line struggles to hold up, it could disrupt the timing of the Chiefs’ offense, affect their third-down efficiency, and increase Mahomes’ injury risk over the course of the season.
AFC West Rivals Are Improving
While Kansas City is focused on fixing internal issues, AFC West opponents are improving and eager to end the Chiefs’ division dominance.
- The Los Angeles Chargers, under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, are expected to bring a tougher, more physical style of football. Quarterback Justin Herbert is healthy again, and the team’s focus on defense and the running game could help control the pace of divisional matchups.
- The Denver Broncos, with Sean Payton in his second year as head coach, are making progress after several rebuilding seasons. Their defense remains one of the most disciplined in the league, and they’ve added fresh offensive weapons through the draft and free agency.
- Even the Las Vegas Raiders, though still finding their footing at quarterback, have a strong core of playmakers and a defense led by Maxx Crosby that could pose problems for the Chiefs’ offensive line.
Each of these teams has built their rosters with the Chiefs in mind. Slipping even slightly in performance could allow one of these rivals to pull off an upset and disrupt Kansas City’s plans.
What the Chiefs Must Do to Stay on Top
For the Chiefs to remain AFC West champions and return to the Super Bowl, they’ll need to address these two challenges quickly:
- Develop a reliable wide receiver group
Whether through new acquisitions, internal development, or a breakout performance from a younger player, Mahomes needs more help on the outside. Travis Kelce is still elite, but he can’t do it alone. - Strengthen and stabilize the offensive line
Keeping Mahomes protected must be the top priority. Without a solid line, even the most talented quarterback will struggle to stay productive for an entire season.
The good news is that the Chiefs have a proven front office and coaching staff capable of making smart moves. General manager Brett Veach has built championship-level rosters in the past, and Andy Reid’s adaptability is one of his biggest strengths.
Final Thoughts
The Kansas City Chiefs are still the top dog in the AFC West, thanks to their star power, strong leadership, and winning culture. But that status could be in danger if they don’t fix two critical areas: wide receiver depth and offensive line protection.
With stronger competition in the division and the constant pressure of championship expectations, the Chiefs can’t afford to take their foot off the gas.
They may still be the favorites but if these problems go unaddressed, their road to another Super Bowl could become a lot bumpier than expected.
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