Big Questions for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025 🤔🏈

For the third consecutive year, I’m diving into the ten most pressing questions surrounding the Kansas City Chiefs as we look ahead to the 2025 season.

1. Pass Rush Challenges from 2024

Reflecting on last season's games, it became apparent that secondary pass rush issues plagued the Chiefs at various times. While Chris Jones delivered a consistent performance as a dominant force, other players struggled to generate pressure, particularly evident during critical matchups against teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Denver Broncos.

That said, the Chiefs did manage to create pressure against the Houston Texans and Buffalo Bills during the postseason. However, the Super Bowl performance against the Philadelphia Eagles was lackluster in this regard, likely due to facing an exceptional offensive line.

So, what went wrong? Here are two primary factors contributing to the decline in pressure.

2. Coverage Adjustments 📊

Last season saw the Chiefs altering coverage schemes significantly. This isn’t a jab; the pass defense itself shined brightly. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo made wise choices, especially in the absence of cornerback L’Jarius Sneed.

In 2023, the team primarily operated a man coverage scheme, leaning heavily on Sneed and fellow cornerback Trent McDuffie to manage the opposition's top wide receivers, a role they performed exceptionally. This approach allowed quarterbacks to hold the ball longer in search of open routes, granting the pass rushers more opportunities to make an impact.

Fast forward to 2024 — the Chiefs had different personnel that made heavy reliance on man coverage unfeasible. Instead, they leaned towards shell coverages, opting for a Cover 4 scheme that prioritized protecting against deep plays. This tactic, while successful in its own right, inherently allowed for quicker offensive routes, reducing the window for the defensive line to apply pressure.

3. Regression in Defensive Ends 🔄

Yet, coverage adjustments weren’t the sole issue.

Defensive end George Karlaftis saw a drop in pressure numbers, recording 61 pressures in 2024 compared to 64 the previous season. When analyzed on a per-snap basis, the decline was even more pronounced; his pressure rate plummeted from 14.1% in 2023 to just 11.2% in 2024.

Other defensive ends faced even steeper declines. Mike Danna wrapped up the season with only 22 pressures — down from 41 in the previous year — often struggling to make a mark against quick passes.

Charles Omenihu, returning from a torn ACL, only saw action in six games. His absence had a ripple effect; when Omenihu was active in 2023, the pass rush thrived. Without him for much of 2024, the contrast was stark.

Rookie Felix Anudike-Uzomah had limited contributions, and Josh Uche, brought in to bolster the line, also fell short of expectations.

Essentially, the pressure came primarily from Jones and Karlaftis, with little from others. The team's lack of speed around the corner made it easier for offensive tackles to defend against power rushes, hampering the defensive line's effectiveness.

4. Improving the Pass Rush in 2025 🔧

Looking ahead, two things need to occur for the Chiefs to bolster their pass rush: enhanced performance from returning players and contributions from rookies.

Will Karlaftis rise to the occasion in what could be a contract year? Has he reached his maximum potential?

What about Omenihu? If fully recovered, can he replicate his impressive 2023 performance? Will Danna make a more significant impact? Can Anudike-Uzomah provide any value?

Additionally, two rookies, defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott and defensive end Ashton Gillotte, have been added to the roster. Can they step in and produce instant results, or will they experience the typical ups and downs of adapting to the NFL?

5. The Role of Rookies 👶

These two rookies hold special importance for the upcoming season. If they can deliver contributions from the get-go, it would provide the defense with greater depth and versatility in its pass rush. Shifting from three or four reliable rushers to five or six could present a game-changing advantage. However, if they struggle initially, Kansas City may find itself lacking in depth.

Despite the uncertainties, I remain optimistic about the secondary pass rush improving. Both Gillotte and Norman-Lott showcase promising talent, and I believe Karlaftis can tap into another gear while Omenihu looks sharper than he did last season.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead 🌟

The quality of the Chiefs’ pass rush will play a crucial role in maintaining their status as one of the league's dominant defenses. As fans, we can eagerly anticipate the evolution of the team in 2025, hoping for stronger performances, smart acquisitions, and fresh talent to keep the spirit of the Chiefs alive and thriving in the NFL landscape. Let's rally behind our team and look forward to an exhilarating season ahead! 🏈💛❤️