The Kansas City Chiefs are navigating troubled waters. After falling to the Chargers and Eagles due to critical mistakes-a costly penalty by Chris Jones and a fumble by Travis Kelce in the end zone-Patrick Mahomes’ team finds itself at the bottom of the AFC West for the first time in years. It’s an unfamiliar position for a franchise used to commanding respect.
However, an unexpected voice came to their defense: Mark Schlereth, Denver Broncos legend and longtime divisional rival, offered a different perspective.
Mark Schlereth defends Kansas City
In a conversation with Rich Eisen, Schlereth made it clear he’s not buying into the apocalyptic narrative. “I don’t think they’re terrible. The Chiefs are still a great football team. It’s just old-school sports hate, and I’ve got plenty of that for the Chiefs,”he said.
Despite the rivalry, he also praised the franchise’s draft work and highlighted the potential of young players like Josh Simmons. He noted that the offensive absences of Rashee Rice (suspension) and Xavier Worthy (shoulder injury) have hit harder than expected, but their return could shift the momentum.
Mahomes under pressure
The start of the season paints an unusual picture. Mahomes is generating more than half of the team’s rushing yards (56.2%), an alarming figure that underscores the lack of offensive weapons. Kansas City also ranks 25th in points per game (19.0) and 29th in completion percentage (58.8%).
Defensively, the numbers aren’t encouraging either: 23.5 points allowed per game and a negative defensive EPA, far from the standards that supported their recent dynasty.
Can the Chiefs bounce back?
Historically, starting 0-2 drastically reduces playoff chances (less than 12%), although the Chiefs are no ordinary team. They’ve played in three consecutive Super Bowls, and oddsmakers still give them a 65% chance of making the postseason.
The bigger challenge lies beyond qualifying: only three teams in modern history have won the Super Bowl after starting with two straight losses. Additionally, their streak of nine consecutive divisional titles is at risk, with the Chargers taking the lead.
Despite the bleak outlook, Schlereth believes Kansas City will find a way to rise. And if Mahomes has shown anything in his career, it’s that he should never be counted out. With 15 games still to play, the Chiefs know the season is just beginning-and hope doesn’t die until the final whistle.
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