With the Kansas City Chiefs officially out of playoff contention, the focus is starting to shift towards the future, particularly what may come in 2026. However, within the locker room, the players are concentrating on the last three games of a season that will mark the first time the team, under quarterback Patrick Mahomes, will not reach the postseason.
While some supporters might suggest that losing the final stretch could better the team’s draft position for next April, such thoughts have gained little support in the Chiefs’ facility. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo emphasized their competitive spirit when speaking to reporters, stating, “Our guys aren’t built that way. I don’t think there’s a coach or player that’s built like that.” He further illustrated his point, explaining that even an informal game of basketball would lead the players to compete fiercely, exemplifying their drive to win.
Defensive lineman Chris Jones echoed this sentiment, expressing a commitment to play for the name on the back of their jerseys, regardless of the season’s outcome. He added, “There’s still opportunities for you to broadcast, to finish strong as an individual and together as a team.” This mindset reflects a team firmly focused on pride and performance, even in challenging circumstances.
Jones’s teammates, George Karlaftis and Ashton Gillotte, reiterated the notion that every player must step up as they look to finish the season with dignity. Karlaftis noted that even those who have not had significant playing time this year are eager to prove themselves, displaying the team’s hunger to succeed.
With injuries prevalent across the roster, the Chiefs may now find a silver lining as they evaluate younger players ahead of the offseason. Spagnuolo acknowledged the need to finish strong while incorporating emerging talent into the lineup. “There are guys that haven’t seen the field all year that are hungry — guys that want to prove what they’re made of,” he shared.
Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy also highlighted how younger players could benefit from increased playing time and view it as a positive step moving forward. Though acknowledging the disappointment of the current situation, he remarked that it serves as a reminder of the hard work that winning demands.
For Jones and his teammates, the focus is clear—concluding the season with momentum that can carry into the next year. “Next year is still around the corner,” he asserted. “Unfortunately, we didn’t make it where we wanted to this year. But that gives us room to improve next year. Success is rented every year—so every year, you have to go out and earn it.”
This determination and resilience reflect the Chiefs’ commitment to their legacy and their desire to return stronger, making for a hopeful outlook for the future.