Shifting from a looming three-peat to surprising mincemeat absolutely wasn’t within the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs’ playbook Sunday.
After all, that’s what occurred earlier than a worldwide viewers in Tremendous Bowl LIX, because the Philadelphia Eagles led by as many as 34 factors en path to a 40-22 runaway.
Chiefs Kingdom has been ransacked! There are cracks within the floor! And Patrick Mahomes, GOAT? Speak about a baaaad take!
Chiefs haters delighted within the defeat, with many feeling it signified the tip of the group’s dynasty. Reality is, KC can hold that reign afloat by efficiently navigating an important offseason.
Earlier than analyzing what faces the franchise, starting with the ready recreation on tight finish Travis Kelce’s doable retirement, right here’s an affirmation for the Chiefs: This, too, shall cross. Simply keep in mind who’s on the prime—not of the NFL anymore, however the group.
Someplace alongside the best way throughout the group’s dominant run of 5 Tremendous Bowl appearances—together with three victories—up to now six seasons, coach Andy Reid shed the doubtful distinction of good man who can’t win the massive one.
Nonetheless solely 29, Mahomes stays the group’s quarterback and chief, and he doesn’t shrink back from accountability.
“I take possession within the loss, in all probability greater than anybody in my profession,” Mahomes mentioned. “I put us in some dangerous spots.”
Certainly, Mahomes bundled three turnovers and was sacked six instances by an Eagles’ protection that dominated the road of scrimmage.
“There’s instances when guys aren’t open, I must throw the ball away or verify it down and let guys make performs occur,” he mentioned. “Generally, I get to the place I wish to make an enormous play to spark us. That’s one thing I’ve handled my whole profession. If I don’t present I’ll take what’s there within the recreation, the defenses are going to remain within the coverages they’re in.”
On a smaller scale, the Chiefs’ return to February glory begins with classes realized from this Tremendous debacle.
Philadelphia had its means up entrance on either side of the ball, and the defensive aspect of that equation confirmed not simply holes within the line however a scarcity of a big-play receiver past rookie Xavier Worthy and an inconsistent operating recreation.
Veteran DeAndre Hopkins was quiet within the playoffs after modest contributions following his midseason acquisition, leaving the Chiefs prone to go exterior the group for a wanted exterior risk. They’ve had a revolving door at receiver in latest seasons however managed to win.
With proper guard Trey Smith anticipated to land a prolific payday in free company, the O-line may take an offseason hit if Smith decides towards a probable hometown low cost given the Chiefs’ wage cap constraints.
Key defenders Nick Bolton, Charles Omenihu, and Justin Reid are also approaching free company, including to the group’s choices.
Kelce nonetheless is underneath contract for the 2025 season, and his off-field skills and exploits are well-publicized. The group has Noah Grey ought to Kelce retire, however his pass-catching talents aren’t as confirmed. Positive, Kelce was a non-factor within the Tremendous Bowl, however his latest pedigree is tough to debate, irrespective of how a lot you resent his commercials and important different.
If Kelce stays, right here’s guessing we received’t see sudden cutaways to Taylor Swift when the Chiefs are on the clock within the NFL Draft. There’ll be loads of urgency for common supervisor Brett Veach and Co. then as KC goals to refresh its roster with rapid contributors. 4 of the group’s six draft picks are throughout the prime 100.
“I really feel like we’re going to be again,” Worthy mentioned. “Use this as gas; use this as motivation.”
The trail again to the highest received’t be simple, however the Chiefs’ core is aware of the best way.
