Kansas City opened its 2025 preseason slate with a sharp performance from its core units, even in a loss to Arizona. Patrick Mahomes connected for a red-zone score in the opening sequence, setting a confident tone for the first-team offense in Week 1. Gardner Minshew showed value as a versatile veteran backup, contributing a rushing score and efficient, though limited, passing. The special teams unit produced an early spark when a return fumble was recovered in the red zone, paving the way for a Mahomes-to- Brownlee TD. On defense, Chris Roland-Wallace supplied a fumble recovery and an interception, signaling flexibility in the secondary, while Jaden Hicks grabbed an INT and Janarius Robinson logged the lone sack. Matt Araiza seized the punting duties, delivering volume and placement that should help field position. Bailey Zappe’s night was rough, highlighting the competition for the backup role behind Mahomes.

The Kansas City Chiefs made a key personnel decision by releasing punter Eddie Czaplicki, paving the way for Matt Araiza to potentially secure the starting punter role for the upcoming 2025 season. This move follows a competitive training camp, where the Chiefs' coaching staff including special teams coordinator Dave Toub hinted that a decision regarding the punter position was imminent. Czaplicki, who was a notable undrafted rookie free agent, had previously won the Ray Guy Award as the nation's top punter but has now parted ways with the team.

A civil lawsuit involving a woman who accused a group of San Diego State University football players of rape at a 2021 house party has been resolved. Marked by national attention, the case primarily involved a player who had built a notable reputation, Matt Araiza, who denied the allegations and maintained he left the party before the incident. Initially, five defendants were named, and the case wound through various legal challenges, including countersuits. Ultimately, the woman’s attorney confirmed the dismissal of the lawsuit, although terms remain undisclosed.

The civil suit has seen Araiza, now with the Kansas City Chiefs, countersue the woman's attorney, alleging malicious prosecution. Despite the complexities, no monetary settlement was publicly disclosed. Co-defendants Zavier Leonard and Jaiden Brown were also dismissed, and this resolution ends a controversial chapter for the involved athletes amidst broader discussions of consent and accountability in collegiate sports.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire was recently released by the Kansas City Chiefs after participating in nine games this NFL season. He quickly signed with the New Orleans Saints' practice squad, where he could benefit financially if the Chiefs advance deep into the playoffs. Should Kansas City win the Super Bowl, he stands to gain $248,000 due to the allocation of playoff compensation, which differs significantly from regular season salaries.

In the playoffs, players are compensated from a league pool, receiving fixed amounts depending on their team's progression. For the 2024 playoffs, wild-card teams receive between $49,500 to $54,500, while Super Bowl winners earn $171,000. The structure means players like Los Angeles Rams' Matthew Stafford earn considerably more during the regular season compared to playoff games.

The Kansas City Chiefs are preparing for the playoffs, aiming to optimize performance in all game phases. In their recent victory against the Cleveland Browns, the defense excelled, while the offense faced challenges. Kicker Harrison Butker, returning from injury, missed a field goal attempt due to a miscommunication during the setup, though he performed well on extra points.

Special teams coach Dave Toub took responsibility for the mishap, emphasizing that Butker's kicking technique has been consistent despite concerns regarding his knee. As the postseason approaches, the Chiefs are hopeful that Butker will regain his rhythm, given his impressive playoff history.