As we gear up for the 2026 Fantasy Football season, it's time to take a closer look at the Kansas City Chiefs—a team that always brings intrigue, whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for an edge in your draft. I'm diving deep into the AFC West, and the Chiefs are a fascinating case study this year. Let's break down the key storylines, players to target, and who you might want to avoid at their current ADP.
Coaching and Offensive Changes
Andy Reid remains at the helm, but there's a major shift: Eric Bieniemy returns as offensive coordinator, replacing Matt Nagy. This is a huge deal for Fantasy managers. Under Bieniemy in 2022, Patrick Mahomes averaged a staggering 28.4 Fantasy points per game. The Chiefs also made some notable additions, including running back Kenneth Walker III, Emari Demercado, and rookie Emmett Johnson (Round 5, Nebraska). Quarterback Justin Fields is also in the mix, adding depth. The team's 2026 schedule ranks fifth toughest based on opponents' 2025 records, so keep that in mind.
2025 Offensive Stats: A Mixed Bag
Last season, the Chiefs ranked 21st in points scored (362 total, 21.3 per game) and 16th in passing yards (3,639). They were seventh in passing attempts (613) but just 25th in both rushing yards (1,812) and attempts (430). That tells you they leaned heavily on the pass, but the new running back additions suggest a shift in philosophy.
Player Spotlight: Patrick Mahomes
Mahomes is the headliner, but there's a big question mark. He's coming off a torn ACL and LCL suffered in Week 15 of 2025. He's hopeful for Week 1, but his health is the top storyline to monitor. Before the injury, he was having his best Fantasy season since 2022, averaging 23.6 points per game thanks to career highs in rushing yards (422) and touchdowns (five) in just 14 games. However, relying on his legs after such a serious injury is risky. The Chiefs' investment in the backfield suggests they'll lean on the run to protect him. With Travis Kelce returning and Rashee Rice healthy, Mahomes still has weapons, but he's a low-end No. 1 quarterback in one-QB leagues, worth a mid-round pick. In Superflex formats, don't wait past Round 4.
Players to Target
Kenneth Walker III is a name to watch. If the Chiefs commit to a ground game, he could be a steal at his current ADP, especially in PPR formats. Rashee Rice, fully healthy, is a breakout candidate in a pass-heavy offense that needs a reliable No. 1 receiver. And don't sleep on Travis Kelce—even at his age, he's a safe bet for consistent production, especially with Bieniemy back.
Players to Avoid
Be cautious with Mahomes until we see how his knee responds in preseason. His rushing upside is likely gone for 2026, and the added running game could limit his passing volume. Also, avoid overpaying for any Chiefs running back not named Walker—the committee could be messy with Demercado and Johnson in the mix.
The Bottom Line
The Chiefs are a team in transition, blending a proven passing attack with a new focus on the run. Mahomes remains a Fantasy star, but his injury and the offensive changes make him a risk-reward pick. Target the supporting cast—especially Walker and Rice—while keeping an eye on training camp reports. If everything clicks, Kansas City could be a Fantasy goldmine in 2026.