First, let’s talk about the Pro Bowl votes. While the Pro Bowl doesn’t hold much weight nowadays, it still has some monetary value and can influence players’ futures, especially when Hall of Fame considerations come into play. The players voted in for the Chiefs include three starters: Center Creed Humphrey, Left Guard Joe Thuney, and Defensive Tackle Chris Jones. These three, along with Travis Kelce and Trey Smith, were nominated as alternates, with Kelce being selected for his 10th straight season.
However, one name that surprised many was Patrick Mahomes, who didn’t make the Pro Bowl as a starter for the first time in his career. This year, Mahomes threw fewer interceptions and had a better passer rating and QBR compared to last year. Despite his performance, quarterbacks like Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen were voted in instead. Mahomes is listed as an alternate, and it’s strange to see him left off given his incredible consistency.
Trent McDuffie was another major snub. The second-highest graded cornerback in the league per PFF, McDuffie was ranked first in lockdown percentage but wasn’t even in the top 10 of Pro Bowl voting, which seems odd given his stellar season.
Speaking of which, Carson Wentz will be starting for the Chiefs in this week’s game against the Broncos, with key players like Mahomes resting after securing the top playoff seed. Wentz, in his first start of the season, will be highly motivated as he tries to make a case for a future starting role with another team. Teams like the Jets, Steelers, Raiders, and Titans may be looking for a quarterback in the offseason, so Sunday’s game could be a big opportunity for him.
One of Wentz’s main targets could be Nico Rigio, who’s been primarily a returner but is now stepping up as a receiver due to injuries to other players. With key starters being rested, the Chiefs will rely more on their younger players, and Nico has a chance to make a strong impression. It will be interesting to see how he performs in what could feel like a preseason game for the Chiefs.
On the other hand, the Broncos are playing for their playoff lives, so expect their key players to be out in full force. Denver has one of the best defenses in the league, ranking fifth in scoring defense and second in yards allowed per play. They will be bringing the pressure, which could put a lot of strain on Wentz and the Chiefs’ offensive line.
The Chiefs will likely rotate offensive linemen like Ethan Driscoll, CJ Hansen, and Kingsley Suat Toia, as they continue to evaluate young talent heading into the playoffs. However, the most crucial player to watch here is DJ Humphries, who has a chance to make an impact after being signed back in December. If he performs well, it could help solidify the interior offensive line for the playoff run.
Another surprising player to keep an eye on is DeAndre Hopkins, who has an incentive to catch one more touchdown to earn an extra $500,000. Similar to how Chris Jones played last season with a big bonus on the line, Hopkins will likely be targeted in the red zone as the Chiefs aim to get him that touchdown.
As for Carson Steel, the running back/fullback hybrid, he’ll likely get most of the carries as other running backs rest. Despite a few earlier fumbles, Steel is determined to show what he can do in the backfield, and Sunday’s game could be a chance for him to make his case for more playing time in the future.
Overall, this game is a bit of a wild card, and although it seems like a regular season finale with little at stake for the Chiefs, it’s a crucial opportunity for younger players to get reps. Whether it’s the offensive line, secondary, or skill positions, these reps will be critical for depth and preparation going into the playoffs.
Finally, let’s quickly go over the injury report. Chris Jones (calf), Isaiah Pacheco (rib), and Jawan Taylor (knee) will not play in this game, but none of these injuries are serious long-term concerns. Other players, like Patrick Mahomes and Trent McDuffie, are resting or limited but are not expected to miss significant time.
The Broncos, meanwhile, have a few injuries but most of their key players, including Zach Allen, will be playing as they aim for a must-win game to secure their playoff spot
All in all, this Sunday’s game might seem like a throwaway, but it could play a big role in shaping the Chiefs’ playoff roster and game plan. Look for young players to step up and veterans like DJ Humphries, Nico Rigio, and DeAndre Hopkins to have an extra incentive to perform well. Whether the Chiefs win or lose, the key is to stay healthy and prepare for the playoffs.
