January 17, 2026 – 9:15 AM EST
The Kansas City Chiefs may be entering an offseason earlier than they’re accustomed to, but the idea that their championship window has closed is far from accurate. Despite what much of the national—and even local—media suggests, the foundation for another deep postseason run is still firmly in place. In fact, the current NFL playoffs are quietly reinforcing that belief.
What the 2025 Playoffs Say About Kansas City’s Future
There’s no denying that the Chiefs have clear roster holes heading into the 2026 season. A recent five-round mock draft made that obvious, and free agency plus the upcoming draft will need to address several key areas. Not every weakness can be fixed in one offseason, but the league’s current landscape suggests that perfection isn’t required to contend.
This year’s playoffs highlight just how wide-open the NFL has become. There is no dominant, unbeatable team separating itself from the pack. Even the Buffalo Bills—widely viewed as the top contender—have noticeable shortcomings. League-wide parity has reached a point where a team with flaws can still realistically compete for a Super Bowl title.
That reality works in Kansas City’s favor. With a healthy Patrick Mahomes under center, the Chiefs don’t need to be flawless to re-enter the championship conversation. If last season’s Chiefs were dropped into this playoff field, there’s a strong argument they could have gone all the way.
A Familiar Core, A New Test
The Chiefs will need to make smart decisions and meaningful adjustments, but the path back to contention is far from unrealistic. What makes this situation especially intriguing is that this is unfamiliar territory for Kansas City during the Mahomes era. For the first time in years, they’re facing real questions rather than expectations of dominance.
How the organization responds to this moment will define the next chapter. If history is any indication, counting the Chiefs out may once again prove to be a mistake.
