

After years of dominating the AFC West, the Kansas City Chiefs are once again positioned-according to analysts-as strong contenders to remain the top team in their conference. However, there’s a lingering sense that not everything is as solid as it appears.
In recent seasons, the Chiefs have faced little serious competition within their division, consistently asserting themselves as the team to beat. Yet now, signs suggest that tide may be starting to turn-and not in Kansas City’s favor.
Despite maintaining the core group that has made them perennial contenders not only in the division but across the AFC, the success of recent years may have caused some complacency, or at least, that’s the impression some observers are getting.
A new dynamic with Harbaugh’s arrival
Jim Harbaugh’s arrival in Los Angeles has already begun to shift the landscape. In his first year as head coach of the Chargers, he immediately elevated the team’s performance. He strengthened the defense and brought renewed energy, making the team competitive again.
During a recent episode of the podcast Speak, former NFL wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson offered a blunt take that might not sit well with Chiefs fans.
Any program Harbaugh takes on, it tends to get better,” he said, referencing how promising the Chargers look under Harbaugh heading into the 2024 season.
His comments on Kansas City, however, were far less optimistic.
I think even though Kansas City has retooled their offensive line, they got Rashee Rice back, Travis Kelce has lost weight, they got a nice defence, they didn’t lose too much. But one of the problems for KC has been the offensive line. Can that OL stand up? I just don’t think we are going to see the same Chiefs.
Johnson outlines key concerns
Johnson praised the Chargers’ offseason moves, including the addition of tight end Tyler Conklin, known for his reliable hands-he didn’t drop a single pass last season. He also highlighted rookie Joe Alt, whose strong college career has generated high expectations ahead of the 2026 campaign.
And of course, quarterback Justin Herbert remains a central figure. Under Harbaugh’s leadership, he’s expected to enhance his precision and pose even greater threats to opposing defenses.
Chiefs making adjustments
Following their underwhelming offensive performance in last season’s Super Bowl against the Philadelphia Eagles, the Chiefs have been working to improve. But Johnson expressed doubt over whether the offensive line is solid enough to protect Patrick Mahomes.
Mahomes is known for his ability to improvise when plays break down, but that improvisation comes at a cost. If his line can’t give him time in the pocket, his health could suffer. Protecting Mahomes must be a top priority if the team hopes to replicate past success.
Despite these concerns, oddsmakers and analysts continue to favor the Chiefs. Still, with all the changes Harbaugh has implemented in Los Angeles, it wouldn’t be shocking if the Chargers emerge as division champions.
Mahomes’ offseason sparks criticism
Patrick Mahomes has been enjoying the offseason with family and friends, recently posting a shirtless photo while at a barbecue. That image drew sharp criticism from radio host Kevin Kietzman, who called Mahomes “fat” and “an embarrassment.”
While Mahomes has never been known for his physique, his uncanny ability to evade defenders remains unmatched. If he continues doing that as well as he always has, that photo will simply be a fleeting snapshot from the summer.
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