It’s too early in the 2025 season to say that certain NFL teams are completely separating themselves from the pack. Everyone knew the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles would be two of the best teams in the league, so it’s not a surprise to see them begin the year undefeated. It has been a suprise to see the Kansas City Chiefs start 0-2.
But there is still a ton of time left for the Chiefs and other teams to turn it around, as well as successful teams to begin to flounder for whatever reason. Anything can happen from here on out, but that doesn’t stop analysts from calling it like they see it. When it comes to the Chiefs, a lot of analysts believe they are close to entering the danger zone.
They aren’t the only AFC powerhouse there, though. The Pittsburgh Steelers may be joining them soon, at least in the eyes of NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks. Brooks recently delved into the issues plaguing both teams before we reach Week 3.
Kansas City Chiefs offense is a shell of its former self
When it comes to the Chiefs, the offense is simply holding the team back. Andy Reid has long been considered an offensive guru, but absences at wide receiver have forced Patrick Mahomes to adopt a “dink-and-dunk” approach, limiting explosive plays. He also isn’t getting helped by “putrid production” from his running backs.
“The Chiefs’ running back tandem lacks the juice and big-play potential to command plus-one boxes on early downs. As a result, Mahomes rarely sees single-high-safety looks with one-on-one coverage on the outside, leading to fewer downfield opportunities for an offense that desperately needs more chunk gains.“
Along with a struggling offensive line, it’s a recipe for disaster for Kansas City’s offense. Perhaps when Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice both return, things will be different.
Pittsburgh Steelers defense is a shell of its former self
When it comes to the Steelers, it’s the other side of the ball that has been a massive disappointment through two games. As Brooks points out, Pittsburgh is sporting the league’s most expensive defense ($162.8 million), yet they gave up 30 points in back-to-back weeks to the New York Jets and Seattle Seahawks, who “aren’t exactly offensive juggernauts“. That said, Brooks does have some optimism for them.
“the Steelers’ collection of talented and experienced playmakers at multiple levels makes me think this is a temporary blip. I can’t imagine the defense will continue to play this poorly, especially once some of the injured players return to action. With more reps and in-game experience, the chemistry, communication and superior ability will eventually click and result in the kind of imposing defense we’ve long associated with the Steel City.“
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