URGENT UPDATE: The Kansas City Chiefs’ playoff hopes have been dashed as the Los Angeles Chargers secured a dramatic 16-13 victory on December 14, 2025. The loss not only eliminated the Chiefs from postseason contention but also saw star quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffer a devastating injury.
In a tense finish at Arrowhead Stadium, Mahomes was injured late in the game while attempting to throw the ball away. Defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand spun him to the ground, leaving Mahomes clutching his left knee. The Chiefs confirmed that an MRI revealed a torn ACL, and the team is currently considering surgical options.
Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew, who took over for Mahomes, briefly reignited hope for the Chiefs by completing several passes. However, with only 20 seconds left on the clock, he threw an interception to Derwin James, sealing the fate of the Chiefs and allowing the Chargers to celebrate their second consecutive 10-win season.
“This is a ball team. A real ball team. Love these guys,” said Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh.
The Chargers, with quarterback Justin Herbert managing a broken left hand, rallied impressively in the second half. They fell behind 13-3 at halftime but surged back to take the lead with a 49-yard field goal from Cameron Dicker late in the third quarter. The Chiefs, facing injuries that left them with a makeshift offensive line, struggled to find their rhythm and ultimately failed to capitalize on key opportunities.
As the Chiefs’ playoff streak ends, tight end Travis Kelce was visibly frustrated, declining to comment on the disappointing outcome. This marks the first time since 2014 that Kansas City will miss the playoffs, a stark contrast to their recent dominance in the league.
Looking ahead, Minshew will lead the Chiefs in their final three games of the season, including a high-stakes matchup against the Denver Broncos on Christmas night. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the team navigates this challenging period without their star quarterback.
As developments continue to unfold, the Chiefs and their fanbase are left to grapple with the implications of Mahomes’ injury and what it means for the future of the franchise. The emotional toll of this loss is felt deeply across Kansas City, a city that has rallied around Mahomes and the Chiefs during their years of success.
Stay tuned for more updates on Mahomes’ recovery and the Chiefs’ upcoming games as they aim to finish the season strong despite this devastating setback.
