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NFL Rookie Grades: Ranking Each 2024 Draft Class, From No. 1 to 32
29 - Kansas City Chiefs
Class Grade: C-
The Chiefs' first two selections were crucial to their Super Bowl LIX journey, although only one player took to the field during the game itself. On the bright side, Xavier Worthy showed significant improvement throughout the season and emerged as the team's primary target as the season progressed. He recorded at least five receptions in seven consecutive games leading up to the Super Bowl, where he delivered an impressive performance, catching all eight targets for 157 yards and two touchdowns. While much of this occurred after the outcome was already decided, it marked the rookie's first 100-yard game, offering a rare high point in an otherwise disappointing season.
However, challenges loomed large for the Chiefs, particularly along the offensive line, which proved to be a persistent worry throughout the year. Third-round selection Kingsley Suamataia started the initial games of the season but struggled significantly and spent the remainder of the year on the bench, failing to see action in the Super Bowl. While it is possible for Suamataia to make strides in his sophomore year, it was evident he was not prepared to safeguard the blind side of Patrick Mahomes during his rookie campaign.
Teams to Watch: Free Agency and Trades Impacting the 2025 NFL Offseason
Can the Chiefs Keep Competitive?
Trey Smith's potential exit in free agency could open the door for a team with deeper pockets, such as the Patriots. This scenario is compounded by the reality that the Chiefs have been losing key players for several years, and the prospect of maintaining their competitive edge is growing precarious.
Starters like Charles Omenihu, Justin Reid, and Nick Bolton could join Smith on the free agency market, along with Marquise Brown, DeAndre Hopkins, Tershawn Wharton, and Josh Uche.
With limited cap space and draft capital, these developments could pose substantial challenges for the franchise. Despite making it to the Super Bowl, the Chiefs struggled on offense, culminating in a disappointing season for Patrick Mahomes in 2024. Their journey to the Super Bowl required winning 12 tightly contested regular season and playoff games, which may not be sustainable moving forward.
With the Bills, Ravens, Bengals, Broncos, and Chargers strengthening their rosters, it seems we may witness a shift in power dynamics within the AFC.
Burnout After Back-to-Back Super Bowl Appearances?
Reports have surfaced suggesting that the team faced fatigue due to their consecutive Super Bowl appearances, which might have contributed to their 40-22 defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles. A Chiefs coach revealed that media members inquired whether playing in multiple Super Bowls eventually becomes tiresome, to which he candidly responded, 'It does.' This sentiment was evident in the first half of the game, where the struggles of the Chiefs became palpable.
Since 2018, the Chiefs have participated in 154 games, leading the league over the past three seasons with 61 games played. This grueling schedule may have played a considerable role in the team's lackluster performance in New Orleans.
Addressing Offseason Needs for Every NFL Team
Kansas City Chiefs: Left Tackle
It might seem repetitive, but the Chiefs are once again in desperate need of a reliable left tackle, despite their three championships. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes faced a daunting challenge, being sacked six times during Super Bowl LIX. As Mahomes approaches his 30s, there are concerns he could find himself without tight end Travis Kelce, who is contemplating retirement. The Chiefs must target a left tackle capable of becoming a cornerstone player for years to come, especially considering they've started a different left tackle in each of their last five Super Bowl appearances.
News from Around the NFL
Unfortunate Incident at Eagles' Super Bowl Parade
Police report that two women sustained gunshot wounds to the leg near the Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl parade. Thankfully, both victims are currently in stable condition. The details surrounding the incident remain unclear, including the specifics of the location, timing, and connection to the shooter.
According to Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore, the shooting followed an argument involving a man in an Eagles jersey. The exact nature of this conflict is still under investigation.
Teams That Might Struggle in 2025
Denver Broncos (10-7)
The Broncos deserve accolades for their 10-win season and playoff berth, especially with a rookie quarterback at the helm. Their past season’s discouragement was avoided as they held off a late Cincinnati charge to enter the playoffs, ending an eight-year postseason drought. However, replicating last year’s top-tier pass rush will be a challenge, particularly as they try to build on last season's impressive sack total.
While the schedule isn't overwhelming, facing tough opponents like the Houston Texans, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders on the road will test their mettle. Competing alongside formidable division rivals, the Chiefs and Chargers, adds to their challenges.
Cam Newton's Controversial Remarks on Panthers’ Culture
Former star quarterback Cam Newton did not shy away from his recent comments about the Panthers, describing the pre-draft locker room as “a group of losers.” He elaborated that while his remarks were direct, they were rooted in reality. He questioned society's sensitivity regarding the harsh truths of a team's performance rather than attacking individual players.
Newton's statements have ruffled feathers, with former teammates, including star receiver Steve Smith Sr., voicing their disagreement with his take on the team's culture.
In Case You Missed It
The Tom Brady vs. Patrick Mahomes GOAT Debate Continues After Recent Super Bowl Loss
Reflecting on Brady’s fourth Super Bowl title at age 37, it’s important to consider how Mahomes' trajectory might be affected by one disappointing performance. Brady's legacy faced challenges too, experiencing losses and injuries, yet he continued to persevere and secure multiple championships.
Key Moments in Brady’s Journey:
- 2005 Divisional Round Loss: Suffered against Jake Plummer and the Broncos.
- 2007 Super Bowl XLII: Lost to Eli Manning and the Giants in a shocking upset.
- 2008 Season: A torn ACL sidelined him in the first game.
- 2012 AFC Championship: Contributed to the second defeat against Ravens led by Flacco.