Overview
- Kansas City moved rookie LT Josh Simmons to injured reserve earlier this week and listed RG Trey Smith and RT Jawaan Taylor as doubtful for Week 14, with Wanya Morris, Jaylon Moore and Mike Caliendo poised to step in.
- The Chiefs also ruled out CB Chris Roland-Wallace and WR Nikko Remigio, tightening depth as Houston brings an elite defense to Arrowhead on Sunday night.
- Houston’s front led by Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter faces a reshuffled line, with the Texans ranking among the league’s best in yards allowed and top 10 in sacks.
- At 6-6 and about 10th in the AFC, Kansas City’s playoff odds jump in win-out scenarios (about 98% per The Athletic) but could drop to roughly 11% with a loss to Houston, while a 4-1 finish keeps a path open.
- Close-game failures (1-6 in one-score contests) are central to the slide as Andy Reid and Travis Kelce preach urgency, former tackle Mitchell Schwartz voices skepticism, and Kevin Durant defends Patrick Mahomes’ legacy.