Week 1 in Sao Paulo pairs Mahomes and the Chiefs with Herbert and the Chargers, a high-profile debut that could set the tone for fantasy grades in 2025. Mahomes is trending toward a deeper-pose attack after a preseason uptick in yards per attempt, while LAC leans into Harbaugh’s ground-and-pound framework with upgraded O-line and backfield depth. Several KC depth pieces are banged up (Norman-Lott questionable, Driskell out, Royals out), nudging Week 1 targets for the top trio in KC’s offense and shaping projected game flow.

DraftKings odds tilt KC (-166) with a 46.5 total, underscoring a close, competitive opener and a potential script toward late-game points. The Chargers carry a seven-game losing streak to KC but arrive healthier on both lines, making this a pivotal fantasy test across QB, RB and WR matchups. The narrative also weaves in one-score-game legacy and the wild-card history that colors expectations for both teams in Brazil.

Chiefs prep for the preseason finale vs. Chicago with a growing list of injuries and a clear shift in how starters will be used in Week 3. Reid aims to balance timing and health, giving starters some reps while protecting key veterans ahead of Week 1 in Brazil against the Chargers.

Out for Friday are Briningstool, Cochrane, Driskell, Edwards, Nazeeh Johnson, Omarr Norman-Lott and Jalen Royals, with Fulton a potential returnee. Brown remains day-to-day after a foot/ankle issue. The injury chart tightens depth at TE, CB, and on the o-line, while the club emphasizes rhythm and proximity to the season opener.

Fantasy implications center on who steps up for Week 1 when Brown’s status is uncertain and CB depth is in flux. The plan prioritizes timing and execution, suggesting late-round flier opportunities at wideout and tight end, plus a watchful eye on back-end defensive roles as the opener in Brazil approaches.

The Kansas City Chiefs are preparing for a crucial Week 15 matchup against the Cleveland Browns, with playoff implications at stake. A victory for the Chiefs would edge them closer to securing the top seed in the AFC, while the Browns, despite a disappointing season, have the potential to disrupt their plans.

Injuries are a significant concern for both teams as they head into the game. The Chiefs will be without left tackle D.J. Humphries due to a hamstring injury, but kicker Harrison Butker returns after a stint on injured reserve. The Browns will miss wide receiver Cedric Tillman and tight end David Njoku due to injuries, adding to their challenges.

Rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey did not play for the Los Angeles Chargers in their matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs due to knee and shoulder injuries, marking his first missed game this season.

McConkey has had an impressive season, ranking third among NFL rookies with 58 receptions and fourth with 815 receiving yards, along with four touchdown catches.

Several other players were also inactive for both teams, including notable names like Clyde Edwards-Helaire for the Chiefs.