Mahomes’ return puts Chiefs’ response under scrutiny in 2026
Charles Woodson has identified Kansas City’s recovery from a difficult 2025 season as a defining storyline for the new NFL campaign.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ response to their disappointing 2025 season, and Patrick Mahomes’ return from an ACL tear, will be among the central storylines of the 2026 NFL season, according to FOX Sports analyst Charles Woodson.
Kansas City reportedly finished 6–11 last season and missed the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade. Mahomes also missed significant time with the injury, ending a period in which the quarterback and the Chiefs had reached five Super Bowls and won three, Woodson said.
Woodson said he was interested in how Mahomes and the team would respond to those setbacks, including the mental impact of Mahomes’ first major injury and the burden he has carried in the Chiefs’ running game.
The Chiefs reportedly addressed that area by signing running back Kenneth Walker during the off-season. They also added cornerback Mansoor Delane and defensive tackle Peter Woods, moves that are expected to strengthen a team facing a competitive AFC West.
Denver and the Los Angeles Chargers made the playoffs in 2025, with Denver finishing 14–3 and securing the AFC’s top seed. Kansas City is scheduled to open the 2026 season at home against Denver, providing an immediate test of the team’s response.
