The Kansas City Chiefs were destined to kick off the 2025 NFL season in primetime, and they’ll do so with a bang when they face the Los Angeles Chargers on Friday night in Brazil. This will be only the second game ever played there. The Chiefs’ popularity is well-known, as evidenced last season when they became the first team to play on six days of the week, which speaks to the league’s strategy of capitalizing on their popularity. Whether it’s Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce-who may be playing his final season-or Taylor Swift, who regularly attends games when her schedule permits, the Chiefs consistently generate compelling storylines. They’re aiming for a fourth consecutive Super Bowl appearance, which would tie an NFL record, as well as a sixth appearance in seven years, which would be an unprecedented feat and keep them in the spotlight.
Schefter’s Candid Take on Chiefs’ Primetime Overload
In 2025, the Chiefs will once again be the NFL’s main attraction. They are scheduled to play eight standalone games, including a league-high seven primetime matchups. They’ll be in the spotlight nearly every holiday, from Thanksgiving Day in Dallas against the Cowboys to Christmas Day at home versus the Denver Broncos. They’ll be soaking up the limelight after falling short of a three-peat in February’s Super Bowl LIX. On his podcast, ESPN analyst Adam Schefter couldn’t hide his amazement:
“It’s unbelievable to me. Eight standalone games. Seven primetime games. Opening Friday night in Brazil against the Chargers, Thanksgiving Day in Dallas against the Cowboys, Christmas Day in Kansas City against the Broncos. They play on Veterans Day, Presidents’ Day, Hanukkah… If you were sick of Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes and Taylor Swift last year, get ready for this year. It’s going to be a Chiefs overload.”
Schefter’s quip underscores the NFL’s knack for maximizing its product. However, he acknowledges that the division’s increased competitiveness might slow their pace from last season’s 15 wins, a franchise high. Love them or loathe them, the NFL ensures the Chiefs are inescapable.
NFL’s Broader Strategy Beyond the Chiefs
The league’s scheduling isn’t just about exposure; it’s a calculated move to leverage the Chiefs’ narrative. Mahomes, the driving force behind this dynasty, continues to captivate audiences, while Kelce’s potential farewell and Swift’s sporadic appearances add layers of intrigue. The Chiefs’ dominance is undeniable: nine straight AFC West titles, seven consecutive appearances in the AFC Championship Game, and five Super Bowl appearances in six years, culminating in three wins. This makes them a ratings gold mine. Their Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles hasn’t diminished their allure. An upcoming six-part docuseries, The Kingdom, will explore their storied past and present dominance, offering fans an intimate look at their journey.
The Chiefs aren’t the only team the NFL is banking on for massive viewership. The Washington Commanders, buoyed by quarterback Jayden Daniels’s rookie sensation, also secure eight standalone games, while the Dallas Cowboys, despite missing the playoffs last year and navigating a new coaching era, maintain their “America’s Team” status. The NFL’s approach is clear: highlight teams with star power and storylines.
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