The officials did not throw a flag, allowing Mahomes’ touchdown to stand and giving Kansas City an early lead in a game the Chiefs eventually won 31-10. The play immediately generated debate, with the broadcast crew questioning whether Kelce had gotten away with an offensive holding penalty.

Days later, Kelce addressed the controversial moment on the New Heights podcast and acknowledged that the officials could have called him for holding. Rather than dismissing the criticism, the Chiefs tight end admitted that he knew the play was dangerously close to drawing a flag.

Did referees made a wrong call in Chiefs vs Broncos?

Travis Kelce described the play as a moment when a player immediately knows he may have crossed the line. He explained that he got up slowly after the play because he was hoping the officials had not seen the contact with Talanoa Hufanga. “It was definitely a questionable play. That’s one of those where you get up slowly like please don’t be any laundry on the field.”

Kelce went even further by acknowledging that the correct decision could have been a holding penalty. With Hufanga attempting to close in on Mahomes near the goal line, Kelce’s block prevented the Broncos safety from getting a clean opportunity to stop the quarterback. The officials ultimately allowed the touchdown to stand, but Kelce admitted that Kansas City was taking a significant risk on the play.

“You can’t do it. Almost cost us and, to be honest, that would have been Patrick Mahomes’ second rushing touchdown called back in two plays. That would have taken us out of the red zone. That was risky business right there.”

Chiefs avoided a costly penalty on Mahomes’ return

The timing made the non-call even more important because Patrick Mahomes had already seen a rushing touchdown wiped out earlier in the drive because of an offensive holding penalty. A second holding call would have erased another potential score and pushed Kansas City back, completely changing the situation inside the red zone.

Instead, Mahomes reached the end zone and the Chiefs took control early in the game. The quarterback’s touchdown was especially significant because it came in his first regular-season game since suffering his major knee injury in December 2025, making his return to the field immediately memorable.

After leaving Monday night’s game following an interception on the opening drive, Delane underwent further testing to determine the severity of the injury. Those results appear to have given Kansas City reason for optimism.

Delane returned to practice Wednesday as the Chiefs began preparing for their Week 2 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, and head coach Andy Reid indicated that the rookie has a legitimate chance to be back on the field Sunday night. “Yeah, there’s a pretty good chance that he’ll be back out there.”

Mansoor Delane could return for Chiefs vs Colts

Delane’s return to practice is an important development after the rookie was forced out of his NFL debut. The sixth overall pick immediately made an impact by intercepting Bo Nix on Denver’s opening possession, but he landed on his right shoulder during the play and did not return to the game.

The Chiefs were able to handle the Broncos without him, but Delane’s quick return would give Steve Spagnuolo another important piece in a secondary that underwent major changes during the offseason. Kansas City moved on from Trent McDuffie, creating a significant opening for a young cornerback like Delane to take on an important role immediately.

For now, Reid’s update suggests the Chiefs avoided the extended absence they feared when Delane first went to the locker room. His practice participation throughout the week will provide a clearer indication of whether he is ready for a full workload, but the early signs point toward the rookie having a chance to face Indianapolis.

Chiefs need Mansoor Delane back in the secondary

Delane’s importance became clear even before his injury. The rookie was entrusted with a major role from the beginning of the season, and his first NFL interception came on the third defensive play of his career. His combination of size, athleticism and coverage ability makes him an important part of Kansas City’s plans after the departure of McDuffie.

The Chiefs also showed in Week 1 that their defense can remain effective even when dealing with injuries. Kansas City limited Denver to 176 total yards in a 31-10 victory, but the Colts present another challenge as the team prepares for its second consecutive primetime game.

If Delane can complete the week without a setback, Kansas City could have its first-round pick back on the field Sunday night. Reid’s latest update does not guarantee that he will play, but after the concern surrounding his shoulder injury Monday, the possibility of seeing Delane against the Colts is a significant positive development for the Chiefs.

ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler provided the surprising update, revealing that Hill remains fond of his former team and that a reunion could make sense once he is healthy enough to return. Fowler wrote: “Free agent receiver Tyreek Hill remains fond of the Chiefs, and a potential in-season signing would make a lot of sense. He should be closer to playing around October.”

The timing makes the possibility particularly intriguing. Hill is not expected to be ready immediately, but his potential availability around October would give the Chiefs an opportunity to evaluate their roster during the first portion of the season before deciding whether to make a major addition. Kansas City already looked impressive in Week 1, making the possibility of adding one of the most explosive receivers of his generation even more interesting.

Will Tyreek Hill return to the Chiefs?

Tyreek Hill spent the first six seasons of his NFL career with Kansas City and became one of Patrick Mahomes’ most dangerous weapons before being traded to the Miami Dolphins in 2022. A reunion would therefore bring back a player who already knows Andy Reid’s offense and has a long history with the organization.

The Chiefs do not necessarily need to make a move at wide receiver after their Week 1 performance, but Hill’s potential availability changes the equation. Kansas City has Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy and other young receivers, yet adding Hill’s speed would give Mahomes another dimension in an offense that could become even more difficult to defend if the veteran returns close to his previous form.

For now, this remains a possibility rather than an indication that the Chiefs and Hill are negotiating a contract. His recovery remains the biggest factor, and October is only a potential window for his return. But after Kansas City looked like a serious contender in its season-opening win over Denver, the idea of adding Tyreek Hill to that roster later in the year would represent a massive potential splash move.

Ian Rapoport identified the Chiefs as a team to watch in the ongoing situation surrounding Porter, who remains involved in a contract dispute with Pittsburgh. The Steelers have been open to trade discussions, although they have yet to receive an offer that matches their asking price.

Rapoport explained the situation this way: “There are teams that are corner needy teams. He is a very good player with a contract situation that’s a mess. They’re obviously at an impasse. So, does someone step up and say, we need a really good corner. Pittsburgh has been open to trading him. The interest based on their price has been not there yet, but definitely one to keep tracking on who he ends up playing with.”

Could the Chiefs trade for Joey Porter Jr.?

The contract situation is a major part of the equation. Pittsburgh has historically been unwilling to negotiate contract extensions once the regular season begins, meaning the window for Porter and the Steelers to reach an agreement has already closed. If the cornerback does not receive the long-term deal he expected, a trade could become an increasingly realistic solution for both sides.

Rapoport specifically pointed to Kansas City as a team worth monitoring because of the uncertainty surrounding rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane. The Chiefs selected Delane in the first round and hoped he could become an important piece of their secondary, but an injury could potentially force Veach to look outside the organization for help.

When asked specifically about the Chiefs as a potential destination for Porter, Rapoport responded: “Chiefs, we’ll see because if Mansoor Delane is hurt, Brett Veach will make a trade. He will be risky. definitely something to keep watching.” That does not mean Kansas City is actively negotiating with Pittsburgh, but it puts the defending AFC contender firmly on the list of teams to monitor if the Steelers decide to move their star cornerback.

The Detroit Lions are another team Rapoport identified as a possibility after Detroit moved on from Terrion Arnold. Porter would give either team an established young cornerback, but any trade would depend heavily on Pittsburgh’s asking price and Porter’s contract expectations. For now, there is no indication that a deal is imminent, but with the Steelers and Porter at an impasse, and multiple teams potentially needing cornerback help, his situation could become one of the NFL’s most interesting trade stories.

Mahomes’ status has been one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Chiefs throughout the offseason after he suffered a significant knee injury last season. However, his recovery has continued to progress impressively, and his full participation in practice represents another important step forward as Kansas City prepares for its Week 1 matchup at Arrowhead Stadium.

The Chiefs are now heading into Monday night’s game with all signs pointing toward Mahomes being available. Andy Reid had already indicated that the quarterback was expected to start barring an unexpected setback, and the latest injury report provides even more confidence that Mahomes will be under center against Denver.

Is Patrick Mahomes playing for Chiefs vs Broncos in Week 1?

Yes. Patrick Mahomes is expected to play for the Chiefs against the Broncos in Week 1 after an impressive recovery from the serious knee injury that ended his 2025 season. His return comes just nine months after suffering ACL and LCL tears, making his progression one of the most notable injury comebacks heading into the new NFL season.

Mahomes did not play during the preseason as the Chiefs carefully managed his recovery, but he has continued working with the first-team offense and has avoided setbacks throughout the final stages of his rehabilitation. Being listed as a full participant in the final injury report is another indication that Kansas City believes he is ready for meaningful game action.

For the Chiefs, getting their franchise quarterback back for the season opener is a massive development. Kansas City missed the playoffs last season for the first time since 2014, and Mahomes’ return immediately changes the expectations surrounding the team as it begins its attempt to reclaim the AFC West and return to championship contention.

Chiefs injury report for game vsBroncos

The Chiefs’ final injury report includes several players dealing with various issues, although most of the names listed were full participants. Defensive back Chamarri Conner was listed with a knee injury and did not practice, while tackle Josh Simmons was also a non-participant because of a back injury. Linebacker Jack Cochrane was a full participant with a knee injury, as were defensive end Ashton Gillotte with a foot issue, wide receiver Rashee Rice with a knee injury and guard Trey Smith with a hip injury.

Kansas City also listed cornerback L’Jarius Sneed as a full participant while dealing with a knee injury, while defensive end R Mason Thomas was a full participant despite a hamstring issue. Wide receiver Xavier Worthy was also a full participant with a shoulder injury, and, most importantly, Mahomes was listed as a full participant with his knee injury. Defensive tackle Chris Jones was the only player among the group listed as limited, with a calf injury.

The overall picture is encouraging for Kansas City heading into Monday Night Football. While Conner and Simmons remain the biggest concerns after missing practice, the majority of the team’s injured players were able to participate fully, including Mahomes, Rice, Worthy, Sneed and Smith. With the quarterback’s return now appearing increasingly certain, the Chiefs are preparing for a major Week 1 test against a Broncos team that won the AFC West last season.

Andy Reid said there is a “good chance” that Mahomes starts in Week 1. This is wonderful news given that is exactly nine months after tearing his ACL. The recovery has been great and he now faces a divisional rival to kick off the season.

Without Mahomes, the Chiefs chances to beat Denver are very slim. Denver went to the AFC game last season, meaning that they’re a top-tier team in the NFL. By the way, if anything, Denver upgraded its roster.

Mahomes will have a tough matchup

The Broncos were an elite defense with 68 sacks last season. Also, they have arguably the best cornerback in the NFL in Patrick Surtain II. Hence, Mahomes will have trouble getting back into rhythm.

Hence, not only does Mahomes have to regain confidence and unleash his talents, but he also has to avoid any hits from a vicious defensive unit. It will be a sight to watch on Monday Night Football.

Mahomes’ record vs Broncos

Mahomes has a very dominant 13-2 career record against the Denver Broncos. He has 4,047 yards with 21 touchdowns to 12 interceptions with a 92.1 passer rating. In fact, he started his career vs Broncos 12-0.

Against Bo Nix, his record is 1-1. Hence, a good rivalry must be brewing and a third installment will be a primetime matchup. For the Chiefs, they’re glad that Mahomes was able to recover properly.

“There’s a good chance Patrick [Mahomes] will start. Most likely, he’ll be the guy that’s out there,” the head coach said per ESPN‘s Nate Taylor. Reid also added that Kahlil Benson would replace Simmons at left tackle if No. 71 is unavailable.

There is little time left until the Chiefs make their debut, as a team that dominated the NFL and defined an era in recent years looks to bounce back. Unfortunately, their last campaign was a disappointing one, not only because of injuries but also due to their results on the field.

Mahomes is ready to return to the field

The Chiefs’ failure to reach the postseason last season may have been due not only to their decline in performance, but also to the brutal injury Mahomes suffered in December 2025. During a game against the Los Angeles Chargers, the quarterback tore his ligaments, underwent surgery, and faced a lengthy rehabilitation process.

To preserve his health and ensure he would be in optimal condition for the season’s first game, Andy Reid made the final decision to keep Mahomes out of preseason action. Justin Fields and Garrett Nussmeier split playing time in the games against the Los Angeles Rams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Seattle Seahawks.

Protecting Mahomes

Protecting their biggest star could be one of the keys for Kansas City Chiefs. While they await a potential recovery from Josh Simmons, these would be the main players responsible for keeping Mahomes from taking hits against the Broncos.

• RT Jaylon Moore
• RG Trey Smith
• C Creed Humphrey
• LG Kingsley Suamataia
• LT Josh Simmons

Khalil Benson, who could replace Simmons if he is unable to play, has Reid’s full support: “We try to play the five best guys,” the HC said, via ESPN. “We’re comfortable with Kahlil on either side and he’s been [practicing] the left side. He’s doing a nice job with it. If he has to be the left tackle, he’s the left tackle and we roll with it. That’s how that goes.”

A schedule that has fans dreaming big

Becoming a contender in this league often depends on having a favorable schedule, not only on the road but also on being able to protect home field. Beyond the difficult season opener, these are the upcoming games the Chiefs will have to navigate to make their mark in the AFC.

• Week 2, vs Indianapolis Colts (September 20)
• Week 3, at Miami Dolphins, (September 27)
• Week 4, at Las Vegas Raiders, (October 4)
• Week 5, Bye Week
• Week 6, vs Los Angeles Chargers (October 18)

Kansas City initially waived Oladokun with an injury designation before he reverted to injured reserve. The Chiefs have now reached an injury settlement with the QB, officially making him a free agent. His injury ultimately played an important role in the Chiefs’ decision as the organization finalized its 53-man roster.

Oladokun’s departure also confirms an important development inside Kansas City’s quarterback room. While Patrick Mahomes remains the unquestioned starter and Justin Fields has secured the backup role, rookie Garrett Nussmeier has earned his place on the roster after an impressive preseason. The seventh-round pick has gone from a player whose draft stock collapsed to someone now positioned to begin his NFL career behind two established quarterbacks.

Chiefs QB depth chart for 2026

With Chris Oladokun officially out of the picture, the Chiefs have a clear three-quarterback structure heading into the 2026 season. Patrick Mahomes remains at the top, Justin Fields provides experienced depth behind him, and Garrett Nussmeier has earned the final spot after winning the competition for the third quarterback job.

The biggest surprise may be Nussmeier’s rise. Before the 2025 college football season, the LSU quarterback was viewed as a potential top quarterback prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, but an injury-plagued senior season dramatically changed his trajectory. He eventually fell all the way to the seventh round, where Kansas City selected him No. 249 overall. Nussmeier had initially been projected to go much earlier before medical concerns contributed to his slide.

Now, Nussmeier has taken a major step forward by earning a spot on the Chiefs’ 53-man roster. His college résumé still shows why there was so much optimism around him before his final season at LSU, where he threw for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2024 before injuries limited his 2025 campaign. Kansas City clearly believes there is enough talent and upside for the rookie to continue developing behind Mahomes and Fields.

Payton made that clear during his media availability on Wednesday, explaining that the Broncos believe Mahomes will be ready just like they expect Bo Nix to start in the Monday Night Football showdown.

“Look, I think, and I’m probably going to say the same for Bo [Nix], you’ve seen enough things where, you know… He’s gonna be 100%, and we’re preparing for him and his best,” Payton said about Mahomes.

“We know how talented he is, and I’m sure he’s attacked the rehab the way Bo has. Completely different injuries, but that’s kind of our approach to it.”

Patrick Mahomes’ injury with the Chiefs

Mahomes is coming back from ACL and LCL tears sustained in December during the Chiefs‘ Week 14 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, another division rival.

The quarterback’s recovery during the offseason went to plan, and all signs are pointing towards him being under center when the Chiefs host the Broncos at Arrowhead on September 14.

“He’s going to keep practicing, just like he’s been doing. These are more like training camp practices here these next couple of days (more 1-on-1),” Reid said about Mahomes’ progress on Wednesday, via Charles Goldman of A to Z Sports.

Bo Nix’s injury in Denver

Nix is also coming back from injury, though a different one. The Broncos quarterback fractured his right ankle in the final minutes of Denver’s divisional round win over the Buffalo Bills in January.

Jarrett Stidham started in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots, and even though he couldn’t lead the team to victory, Payton decided to keep him as the Broncos‘ backup quarterback for 2026. Sam Ehlinger will be the third-string QB as Denver expects Nix to start against Mahomes’ Chiefs in Week 1.

“Pass protection. We knew he could run the ball. But the thing we had to see was pass protection for him to be that No. 2 back. You’ve got to be able to do that…,” Reid said on Johnson’s role with Chiefs.

With this development, Brashard Smith appears to be the player most likely to fall down the depth chart. The Chiefs will look to make an impact on the ground, and Patrick Mahomes has the weapons needed to make it happen. This is the Chiefs’ running back depth chart for 2026:

• Kenneth Walker III
• Emmett Johnson
• Brashard Smith

What does Kenneth Walker bring to Chiefs Kingdom?

Kenneth Walker III had a massive rebound year with the Seahawks in 2025, staying healthy for all 17 regular-season games for the first time in his career. As Seattle’s primary lead back, he logged 221 carries for 1,027 rushing yards—averaging a crisp 4.6 yards per carry—and found the end zone 5 times on the ground.

He also proved to be a reliable safety valve in the passing game, hauling in 31 receptions for 282 receiving yards, setting up an explosive postseason run that capped off his Seahawks chapter in legendary fashion.

In the latest Super Bowl, where he was crowned champion and named MVP, Walker played a pivotal role. He finished with 27 carries for 135 rushing yards, without recording a touchdown.

Andy Reid wants to unleash the ground game

The Kansas City Chiefs had a surprisingly sluggish year on the ground in 2025, finishing 25th in the NFL with just 106.6 rushing yards per game and 1,812 total yards on 430 carries (4.2 yards per attempt) with 15 touchdowns. The backfield split work across a heavily rotated rotation—led by Kareem Hunt’s 611 yards—leaving the offense overly reliant on Patrick Mahomes to bail out early-down lulls.

Heading into 2026, Andy Reid is focused on tightening up those numbers by restoring balance to his scheme: establishing greater efficiency on first and second downs, taking pressure off the passing game, and committing to a more physical, explosive run game to keep defenses honest in the red zone.

Per Charles Goldman of AtoZSports, Reid said, “He’s doing great… literally taking it day-by-day. If trainers, doctors, and everybody give him the OK… and he feels OK…“ All in all, it looks like a positive for the team.

Basically, if there is no setback, Mahomes will play vs. Broncos in Week 1. Mahomes tore his ACL on December 14, 2025, during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chiefs were having a bad season, but the injury relegated them to miss the playoffs.

The Chiefs’ record without Mahomes

Mahomes became the starter in 2018, and since then, he’s been usually available and making magic for the Chiefs. However, since he got the job, the Chiefs rely too much in him. From 2018 to 2025, the Chiefs are 2-6 when Mahomes doesn’t start or play for the team.

The Chiefs brought Justin Fields and drafted Garrett Nussmeier to have reliable backups if Mahomes suffers a setback or reinjures himself. However, at least for the moment, Mahomes will be available to start the season.

What is Mahomes’ record vs Broncos?

The Chiefs really hope Mahomes can suit up and play vs. the Broncos because he has dominated this team at will since entering the NFL. In fact, Mahomes has a 13-2 record vs. Broncos which is high-rate efficiency.