The Kansas City Chiefs are currently the only unbeaten team in the NFL, yet quarterback Patrick Mahomes leads the league in interceptions, and the team’s offense is recording the fifth-highest turnover rate per game. This has sparked considerable debate about the team’s overall greatness and Mahomes’ performance in 2024.
As Week 9 approaches, Mahomes holds the third-highest odds for the NFL MVP award at +600, ahead of Jared Goff (+800), Jayden Daniels (+1600), and Derrick Henry (+2000). This has prompted discussions about whether Kansas City is truly the best team in the league and whether Mahomes belongs in the MVP conversation.
Although it’s clear that the three-time Super Bowl MVP is not at the peak of his career, many league insiders have shared insights into the challenges facing the Chiefs this season. NFL executives who spoke with Jeff Howe of The Athletic provided perspective on the team’s offensive struggles, identifying areas of concern and affirming Mahomes’ status as an elite quarterback.
The Chiefs recently acquired wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins before the NFL trade deadline, but at 32 years old, he is not the player he once was. This addition comes amid injuries to key receivers, including Rashee Rice and Marquise Brown, who are both out for the season.
The offensive line has faced significant challenges, particularly at the tackle position. Wanya Morris has allowed 14 pressures, four quarterback hits, and three sacks over 208 pass-blocking snaps, ranking 67th out of 78 tackles in pass protection, according to Pro Football Focus. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor ranks 38th in pass blocking, partly due to three penalties and three sacks allowed.
While the Chiefs’ running game has shown improvement in recent weeks, it hasn’t been as effective without Isiah Pacheco, who is expected to miss at least another week after suffering a fractured fibula and torn ankle ligaments in September. The absence of Brown and Rice is permanent, although there is a slim chance one of them could return if the Chiefs make it to the Super Bowl.
For now, Kansas City will rely on its strong defense and effective run game while Mahomes and Hopkins work to develop their chemistry. Thus far, this strategy has proven successful, keeping the team undefeated.
