Mahomes' 2025 Woes: Can Chiefs Bounce Back?

Patrick Mahomes experienced his first significant career struggles in 2025, as the Kansas City Chiefs' offense stagnated. A declining run game and a lack of reliable receiving targets contributed to a season-ending torn ACL after 14 games, with the team securing only six wins. Mahomes' touchdown and success rates dropped to career lows.

The Chiefs are now preparing for the 2026 season with Mahomes healthy, though the roster presents challenges. Reigning Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III is expected to bolster the ground game, and Rashee Rice is returning from injury, with Travis Kelce remaining a key target. This offensive support is crucial as the defense will see substantial changes in its secondary.

Kansas City's secondary depth was significantly impacted by the offseason departures of Trent McDuffie, Bryan Cook, and Jaylen Watson. To address this, the Chiefs drafted cornerback Mansoor Delane with the sixth overall pick and added L'Jarius Sneed and Alohi Gilman. Despite these additions, the secondary faces the daunting task of defending against the AFC's elite quarterbacks in 2026.

Despite defensive concerns and a 29th-ranked WR corps, the Chiefs are projected to improve in 2026. While a return to contender status is uncertain, the team's performance in 2025 is expected to be the low point of their current decade, with potential for growth led by Mahomes and new additions.