What the Chiefs Need in the Second Half to Make Another Deep Run

The Kansas City Chiefs had an up-and-down first half of the season. The good news is that they are still in the middle of things in the AFC. They want to build momentum in the second half.

Oct 27, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Chris Jones (95) walks off the field after warmups prior to the game against the Washington Commanders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images | Denny Medley-Imagn Images

The Kansas City Chiefs' season has had its moments so far. They did not have the start that they had wanted, but they did weather the storm in the first few games of the season. The Chiefs had some important pieces missing on the offensive side of the ball, and once they got them back, the offense came to life. The Chiefs' offense is led by the best quarterback in the NFL in Patrick Mahomes, who has been one of the best in the last few weeks, and that is something they are looking to build off of.

The defense for the Chiefs has been impressive as well. The Chiefs even with all the missing pieces that were not here for the Chiefs this season, have been able to play at a higher level and be better. A lot of credit has to go to defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who is the best one in the league. He has his defense playing at a good level this season, and he is letting them fly on the field and they are making plays.

Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Jordan Phillips pressure Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes who was trying to get a pass off before Phillips reached him during first half action against the Kansas City Chiefs at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on Nov. 2, 2025. | Tina MacIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

In the second half of the season, the Chiefs will look to improve in all the areas of their team and make the adjustments to win more games in the second half of the season. The Chiefs would like to get back into the AFC West picture and keep fighting for a playoff spot. And what they need is to get in and then that changes the whole playoff picture.

Chris Jones Needs to Come Alive in the Second Half of the Season

"Can Jones elevate his play to a superstar level again? At age 31, Jones hasn't been as dominant as in previous years. The Chiefs didn't make a move at the deadline to improve their pass rush around Jones, either," said Nate Taylor of ESPN. "Once again, Jones will have to carry the burden for lifting Steve Spagnuolo's unit. Entering their bye week, the Chiefs have recorded just 20 sacks and nine takeaways."

Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Jones has long been the Chiefs' top defender and source of pass-rush. But for a talented Chiefs unit to hits true potential this season, it is clear he is going to have to find a different gear to tap into as the Chiefs come off their bye week.

Never again miss one major story related to your beloved Chiefs when you sign up for our 100% FREE newsletter that comes straight to your email with the latest news.  SIGN UP HERE NOW.

Chiefs Kingdom, OnSI welcomes you to the Internet’s No. 1 destination for in-depth info, always free; the best way to get it is to follow @KCChiefsOnSI, @ZakSGilbert and @Domminchellaon X (Twitter). And join the conversation by visiting our Facebook page (here).