UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, the Kansas City Chiefs have been eliminated from playoff contention after a devastating 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on December 14, 2025. The game ended with star quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffering a torn ACL, confirmed by an MRI shortly after the game.
The Chiefs’ hopes of a postseason run were dashed when Mahomes was injured in the second half while attempting to throw the ball away. Defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand spun him to the ground, leading to the injury that has left the team reeling. Mahomes was seen leaving the field with a towel draped over his head, a grim image signaling the end of his season.
Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew took over, completing three straight passes that briefly reignited hopes among Chiefs fans. However, with just 20 seconds remaining, Minshew’s pass intended for Travis Kelce was intercepted by Derwin James, sealing the Chargers’ victory and their place in the postseason.
“It means a lot for our team, because we’re 5-0 in our division,” James stated after the game. “Coming into Arrowhead Stadium and getting a win is huge.”
The Chargers, led by Justin Herbert, who played through a broken left hand, rallied in the second half to secure their second consecutive 10-win season. Herbert’s leadership, alongside key defensive plays, allowed Los Angeles to overcome an early deficit. After trailing 13-3, the Chargers surged back, with Herbert connecting on critical throws that shifted momentum.
The Chiefs’ struggles were compounded by injuries that left them with a decimated offensive line. Mahomes finished the game with 189 yards passing, a stark contrast to his usual performance. The interception in the end zone was a final blow, as it epitomized the Chiefs’ frustrating season marked by missed opportunities and injuries.
With Mahomes out for the remainder of the season, Minshew will lead the Chiefs in their final three games, including a crucial primetime matchup against the Denver Broncos on Christmas night. This marks the first time since 2014 that the Chiefs will not participate in the playoffs, a shocking turnaround for a franchise that has enjoyed recent success.
As the Chiefs process this loss, tight end Kelce declined to comment post-game, reflecting the somber mood surrounding the team. The emotional toll of losing Mahomes, a two-time MVP and the face of the franchise, is palpable among players and fans alike.
The Chargers, on the other hand, are celebrating a significant victory that solidifies their playoff positioning. Coach Jim Harbaugh praised his team, stating, “This is my favorite ball team that I’ve ever been on. A real ball team.” The confidence and momentum they gained in this matchup could prove vital as they head into the postseason.
As fans and players await further updates on Mahomes’ recovery and potential surgery options, all eyes will be on the Chiefs’ final games of the season. This dramatic turn of events has left the NFL community buzzing, and discussions surrounding Mahomes’ future and the Chiefs’ next steps are already underway.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
