The Kansas City Chiefs have plunged deeper into a troubling season following a 20-10 loss to the Houston Texans on December 7, 2025. Once considered a dominant force in the NFL, the Chiefs now find themselves with a 6-7 record, having lost six of their last eight games. Their defeat against Houston has significantly diminished their playoff chances, now sitting at around 15%.
This latest setback not only highlights the team’s struggles but also raises questions about their overall performance. The Chiefs were unable to secure a single touchdown in the first half, trailing 201 to 98 yards against the Texans. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes completed just 42.8% of his passes, while veteran tight end Travis Kelce had a crucial drop that contributed to the loss.
Emmanuel Acho’s Stark Assessment
In a recent discussion on the show Speakeasy, commentator Emmanuel Acho offered a blunt evaluation of the Chiefs, stating, “The Chiefs are not a good football team [anymore].” He dissected the roster, pointing out a lack of explosive playmakers on offense. Acho highlighted that Taequann Thornton, typically a third receiver for most teams, is currently the Chiefs’ best option, which indicates a significant drop in talent.
Acho further criticized the team’s performance, noting that the running game was nearly non-existent. He remarked on the reliance on Kareem Hunt, who is now 30 years old and “five years past his prime.” On defense, he emphasized the lack of depth, particularly in the cornerback position, suggesting that when Trent McDuffie is off the field, the team lacks adequate replacements.
A Team in Decline
The analysis from Acho pointed to a broader trend in the Chiefs’ performance, describing them as “an aging, older, elderly team.” He argued that the current roster lacks the explosiveness and depth that once characterized their play. This decline in capabilities is not merely a slump, he asserts, but a clear indication that a significant reset is necessary for the organization.
Acho emphasized that the only reason the Chiefs are still regarded as contenders is due to their historical success and the legacy of Mahomes. “It’s only because they have the name Chiefs that we still talk about them like this,” he remarked, stripping away past accomplishments to reveal a team struggling to find its identity.
Despite their current situation, the Chiefs are not yet mathematically eliminated from playoff contention. However, their ongoing struggles have exposed fundamental weaknesses that could prove demoralizing for the team and its supporters. With crucial decisions looming on the horizon, it remains to be seen whether the Chiefs will continue to fight for a playoff spot or begin preparations for next season.
As the season progresses, the Chiefs must confront their challenges head-on. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal in determining the direction of the franchise moving forward.
