Kansas City enters 2025 with a defense-first identity, hoping to carry the load as the offense seeks more explosive plays. The unit ranked second in defensive grade last season behind the Eagles, led by Chris Jones, Nick Bolton, and Trent McDuffie, with Steve Spagnuolo again orchestrating pressure schemes. Mahomes still wins in close games, but his target depth dipped to 7.0 yards on average, hinting at a more conservative approach and a prime chance for Rashee Rice to break out if KC can improve its tackle play and left guard. Creed Humphrey anchors a strong interior, and Josh Simmons—healthy or not—will be pivotal at left tackle as first-round buzz centers on his NFL adjustment. Expect Rice to be a steady fantasy contributor with upside if explosiveness returns to the passing game, while the defense remains a fantasy backbone.

Key fantasy angles: Rice’s trajectory hinges on the O-line’s upgrade and the efficiency of Mahomes’ delivering weapons. If the line stabilizes and Simmons acclimates, Rice could approach top-tier WR volatility, especially with Mahomes’ penchant for clutch production. Chris Jones remains a high-end DL option whose pressure count should keep KC’s defense elite. Humphrey’s durability and Bolton’s linebacker play add insurance for fantasy defenses and the Chiefs’ overall floor. In short, KC remains a top fantasy asset mix: Rice as a breakout candidate, Mahomes as a steady QB1, and Jones/ Bolton/McDuffie anchoring a stifling group that should maintain elite week-to-week upside.

Nik Bonitto’s 2024 breakout vaulted him from a rotational role to a Pro Bowl pass rusher, posting 13.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss. That production helped Denver end a playoff drought dating to 2015 and propelled him to No. 38 on the NFL Top 100 for 2025. The ascent underscores his development and makes him a focal point of one of the league’s elite defenses. Bonitto’s transformation from a Sooners standout to an NFL cornerstone also highlights the Broncos’ schematic sting on the edge that fantasy managers should monitor for IDP leverage.

His rise has immediate fantasy implications: sustained sack upside, potential for additional TFLs, and a clear signal that Denver’s defense will continue to generate big plays. The Top 100 recognition increases Bonitto’s market value for trades or signup spots in dynasty formats, while NFL betters will want to weigh his frequency of pressure against premier tackles in upcoming matchups.

Creed Humphrey has solidified his position as the NFL's premier interior offensive lineman, according to a recent poll of league executives, coaches, and players. The Kansas City Chiefs center stood out in the rankings thanks to his exceptional skills in pass protection and his ability to navigate chaotic situations effectively. While he may not be known for his power in the run game, his agility and instincts have earned him top-tier recognition.

This accolade reflects not just his individual performance but also the Chiefs' overall success, contributing to a formidable offensive line that is pivotal for the team's Super Bowl aspirations. As Humphrey continues to excel, fantasy managers may need to keep an eye on how his protection impacts the performance of quarterbacks and running backs in Kansas City.

As the 2025 NFL training camps approach, a fresh consensus among league insiders has emerged. With input from over 70 voters—executives, coaches, and scouts—ESPN has compiled a ranking of the top players at various positions, including quarterback and cornerback. Notably, the offensive line rankings have seen revitalization with younger talents like Creed Humphrey and Tyler Smith rising to the top, while veterans like Quenton Nelson maintain their elite status. The Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles have a significant influence in these rankings, highlighting their impact on the league.

Creed Humphrey of the Kansas City Chiefs has claimed the top spot among interior linemen, praised for his pass protection skills and leadership on the field. Tyler Smith of the Dallas Cowboys follows closely, showcasing his versatility and aggression. The rankings reflect a shift towards youth, with several players debuting in the top ten. The full list will be released over 11 days, offering insights into the league's evolving talent landscape.

The Kansas City Chiefs had a remarkable season in 2024, finishing with a stellar 15-2 record, showcasing their dominance in the AFC and tying for the best record in the NFL with the Detroit Lions. Despite their impressive regular season, the Chiefs faced disappointment in Super Bowl LIX, where they were defeated by the Philadelphia Eagles with a score of 40-22, missing out on a chance for a third consecutive championship.

Center Creed Humphrey emerged as a pivotal player throughout the season, earning high praise from Pro Football Focus as the league's top center leading into the 2025 season. His performance contributed significantly to the Chiefs' offense, and he was recognized as one of the Top 100 NFL players for 2025, ranking at No. 93, reflecting his growing reputation among his peers.