Kansas City Chiefs Depth Chart 2025: Week 1 Projections

David

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Post on Sep 05, 2025

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Kansas City Chiefs Depth Chart 2025: Week 1 Projections – A Bold Look Ahead

The Kansas City Chiefs' dynasty continues, but the ever-shifting landscape of the NFL means constant evolution. Predicting a depth chart three years out is inherently speculative, but examining current roster trends and potential draft picks offers a fascinating glimpse into what the Chiefs might look like in Week 1 of the 2025 season. This projection considers contract situations, player performance, and potential free agency moves, acknowledging the inherent uncertainties involved.

Quarterback:

• Starter: Patrick Mahomes remains the undisputed leader. Assuming continued health and performance, the reigning Super Bowl MVP will likely be starting for the Chiefs in 2025. His contract extension ensures his place at the helm.
• Backup: This position is more fluid. Shane Buechele's development will be crucial. The Chiefs might look to the draft or free agency to secure a reliable backup with experience. A potential scenario involves drafting a quarterback in the mid-to-late rounds in the upcoming years.

Running Back:

• Starter: Isiah Pacheco's explosive style should solidify his position. However, the Chiefs' reliance on a committee approach remains likely.
• Backup: Jerick McKinnon’s veteran presence provides invaluable experience. His contract situation in 2025 will be a key factor. The team might look to add another young back through the draft to contribute on special teams and provide depth.

Wide Receiver:

• Starters: Travis Kelce remains a cornerstone, albeit aging. The Chiefs will likely continue to draft and develop young receivers to complement him. The long-term future beyond 2025 will depend on their success in bolstering this position.
• Backup: This area will be highly competitive. The Chiefs often utilize multiple receivers, and the 2025 depth chart will depend heavily on draft success and the development of younger players on the roster. Expect significant roster churn here.

Tight End:

• Starter: Assuming Travis Kelce's health, he's the starter. However, planning for the post-Kelce era is crucial. The Chiefs need to cultivate a strong young tight end to take the mantle eventually. This position is a high priority for future drafts.
• Backup: This role will be filled by a combination of young, developing talent and potentially a veteran free agent signing.

Offensive Line:

• Starters: This will depend heavily on contract renewals and player performance. The Chiefs are committed to maintaining a strong offensive line, so expect a combination of experienced veterans and promising young players.
• Backup: Building depth is vital here. The Chiefs will likely prioritize drafting and developing offensive linemen to ensure continued protection for Mahomes.

Defensive Line:

• Starters: This will require a strong scouting and drafting approach in the years to come. Key players will need to be retained or replaced through strategic free agency moves and the draft.
• Backup: Similar to the offensive line, depth and young talent will be paramount for sustaining a dominant defensive front.

Linebacker:

• Starters: Similar to the defensive line, rebuilding and maintaining talent will be a continuous process. The Chiefs will look to secure long-term deals with key players or acquire talent through free agency and the draft.
• Backup: Developing depth through the draft and free agency will be essential to maintain consistency and competitiveness at the linebacker position.

Defensive Backs:

• Starters and Backups: This defensive unit will experience a similar level of turnover as other positions. The Chiefs will prioritize drafting young, skilled cornerbacks and safeties to support the veteran players, ensuring competitiveness in the future.

Special Teams:

The special teams unit will rely on a combination of established players and promising rookies who can contribute. Consistent performance in this area remains crucial.

Conclusion:

The 2025 Kansas City Chiefs depth chart is a complex equation with many unknowns. While Patrick Mahomes will undoubtedly remain the cornerstone, significant roster turnover is expected across the board. The Chiefs’ success in 2025 and beyond will hinge on their ability to draft well, develop young talent, and strategically manage free agency. This projection offers a potential scenario, but the reality will likely unfold quite differently depending on player performance, injuries, and the team’s strategic choices over the next few seasons. Stay tuned for updates as the NFL Draft and the upcoming seasons progress.