Arrowhead Pride
When the regular season ends in just under three weeks, the Kansas City Chiefs will not be in the playoffs; the 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 15 cemented that fact. A cursed season somehow got worse and became a true disaster. The latest collection of power rankings across NFL media reflected that.
Here’s this week’s sampling:
(No change)
In a shocking double blow, the Chiefs were officially eliminated from playoff contention and Patrick Mahomes suffered a season-ending torn ACL, which likely will affect his offseason outlook and timetable, as well. There might be a tangible argument that the Chiefs finding a way into this year’s playoffs could have given them a false sense of security in the system and that, as it’s been for most of the past decade, things are gonna be OK. I’m not going to buy that, and it’s hard to put a positive light on Mahomes’ injury. I also don’t think major offseason changes are guaranteed, but one way or another, the Chiefs must boost the pass rush, add some RB punch and figure out how best to get the most from this QB and these receivers.
— Eric Edholm
(Down from 16)
Extension candidate: Cornerback Jaylen Watson
A former seventh-round pick, Watson has been an above-average defender for the Chiefs and is on the final year of his rookie deal. He has started every game this season, playing a career-high 809 snaps (97% of the defense). In coverage, he has yet to surrender a touchdown, recording two interceptions and six pass breakups. By retaining Watson, the Chiefs can still keep the quality duo at cornerback with McDuffie, a two-time All-Pro cornerback, on the opposite side. — Nate Taylor
— Nate Taylor
(Down from 17)
Worst-case scenario: It’s over
Not just over for this season (although that, too). The Chiefs’ chances of extending their playoff streak to 11 seasons fell to 16 percent with Sunday night’s loss, and perhaps worse, everyone on the offense looked old. Even the young guys. Rashee Rice dropped multiple passes. Travis Kelce bobbled one away to the Texans. Patrick Mahomes had three interceptions and a 19.8 passer rating. Kansas City has lost four of its last five.
— Josh Kendall
(Down from 18)
Column on the potential of a Patrick Mahomes gap in time, and why, for a person so immersed in the pursuit of greatness, this could be a blessing in disguise.
— Conor Orr
(Down from 19)
Yes, there can be worse days than being blown out in the Super Bowl.
— Mike Florio
(Down from 19)
It’s over. The playoffs are out, Patrick Mahomes is lost with a torn ACL, and the future is now in question. Is the dynasty over?
— Pete Prisco
(Down from 15)
It was reasonable to...
