Arrowhead Pride
Thursday’s game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos was actually kind of fun to watch. If you squinted really hard, it looked a bit like the old days — when meaningless late-season games meant resting starters for a playoff run. We saw some fire from some veterans, some signs of life from under-utilized players, a close game — and a drive that almost became a classic. That’s more than I expected to see in Week 17’s matchup.
Here are a few who stood out against the Denver Broncos.
Cornerback Nohl Williams: The rookie from Cal once again showed why fans and pundits have been pounding the table for him. We’ve come to expect he’ll be great in outside coverage — but on Thursday, he also showed tremendous physicality and instincts as a run defender. Williams battled through blocks for three tackles-for-loss against the Broncos. He looks like a guy who should get 100% of future snaps.
Safety Bryan Cook: His ascension has been lost in 2025’s frustrating season. He was tremendous in this matchup (and for most of the season) as an enforcer all over the field. He looked like the type of player who can help define the defense’s identity.
Cornerback Kristian Fulton and linebacker Nick Bolton: Each had very solid individual games. Fulton finally showed why he was the missing piece in the cornerback room, and Bolton fought through injuries and finished with a pass defended and double-digit tackles. But the play they made together was spectacular. At the close of the first quarter, the Chiefs — down 3-0 — got pressure on third down. Fulton made a tremendous play on the ball, tipping it into the air so Bolton could secure a diving interception. It was one of the best defensive plays of the season.
Tackles Chu Godrick and Esa Pole: These guys have limited football experience, so they would represent the third-or-fourth-best option on a typical depth chart. But they’re doing everything that could be asked of them — and more. Thursday’s results were remarkable: just one sack allowed, no false starts, no holding calls and some workable running lanes.
Running back Kareem Hunt: Hunt averaged over 5 yards per carry in limited action against the Broncos, converting on short yardage like he has all season. Who needs the “tush push” when you’ve got this tough veteran? If the Chiefs can find a featured back for 2026, they could already have their short-yardage guy in the house.
Offensive weapon Brashard Smith: Yes… this is how we should list him heading into 2026. And yes…he should be more involved in the offense. He might also be the best returner on the team; his 44-yard punt return was one of the game’s biggest plays. It’s not clear why the team couldn’t find a role for this kid sooner — but like with Hunt, he’s ready for a role alongside 2026’s starting running back. In Smith’s case, he would be the Chiefs’ “gadget guy.”
**Quarterback...
