The Kansas City Chiefs are in danger of missing the playoffs after falling to 5-4 and the #8 seed in the AFC following their Week 9 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
While they still have a chance, missing the postseason is a real possibility given their struggles with closing out close games and the current AFC playoff picture.
“All [the Chiefs] care about is the postseason … the Bills are more dialed in during the regular season.”@dannykanell after the Bills defeat the Chiefs pic.twitter.com/44joptHvxx
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) November 3, 2025
The Chiefs entered Week 9 holding the #7 seed and the final Wild Card spot. Their 28-21 loss to the Bills dropped them to 5-4, putting them half a game behind the 5-3 Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Jaguars currently hold the tiebreaker over the Chiefs due to their head-to-head victory in Week 5.
The Chiefs have lost all four of their one-score games this season, including their Week 9 loss to the Bills. In the past, Kansas City has excelled at pulling out tight wins, but their inability to finish has been an issue in 2025.
The offensive line has struggled with consistency and pass protection, which has been another issue throughout the season.
In the Week 9 loss, the Bills’ pass rush pressured quarterback Patrick Mahomes on over 50% of his dropbacks. Mahomes completed less than 50% of his passes against Buffalo, a career first for him.
The Chiefs are on their bye week in Week 10, giving them a much-needed chance to regroup and address their issues.
They face a difficult remaining schedule, including divisional games against the Broncos and Chargers, as well as matchups with the Colts and Texans.
To win a tenth consecutive AFC West title, they would likely need to finish their divisional games with a perfect 4-0 record.
Kansas City Chiefs’ Road to the Playoffs Gets Tougher But Still Within Reach
Despite their current position, the Chiefs are still well-positioned to make the playoffs, but it will be an “uphill battle,” according to Mahomes.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ playoff chances remain strong despite early-season struggles. Historically known for strong finishes and deep playoff runs, oddsmakers and statistical models continue to view the Chiefs as one of the AFC’s top contenders.
However, their path is complicated by a competitive AFC West, where they currently sit third behind the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers.
The Chiefs’ remaining schedule also presents a tough test. With one of the league’s more challenging stretches ahead, their ability to secure wins will be critical.
Even if the Chiefs don’t win the division, they are still in a strong position to secure a Wild Card spot in the AFC and extend their postseason streak. Their Week 10 bye additionally provides a valuable opportunity to rest and regroup before a crucial stretch of games.
