The Kansas City Chiefs are the NFL’s golden team. You may think it for their back-to-back Super Bowl victories. Or maybe for Patrick Mahomes’ on-field magic. However, their last season’s finale went differently. From the start, something was off. The Chiefs, usually unfazed under pressure, struggled to find their rhythm as their opponent took control early. For three quarters, the game slipped away, not just because of execution but there’s something more about the preparation, adjustments, and mindset. Now, weeks later, a key leader from that locker room has come out to speak of it, finally revealing what really went wrong.

In a candid conversation on Up & Adams, Justin Reid acknowledged that the Chiefs’ slow start played a major role in their loss.“Yeah, I think that that would have made a tremendous impact,” Reid said when asked if starting fast would have changed the outcome. “They jumped on—they just jumped out so quickly. And then once the bleeding started, it was hard to stop it and turn momentum.”

The Chiefs, known for their powerful offense and clutch performances, somehow couldn’t find their rhythm early in the game. Their opponent dominated the first three quarters while Kansas City struggled to respond. “We wanted to come out and have an explosive play in the second half,” Reid explained. But by then, the damage was already done. The Eagles controlled the pace, forcing the Chiefs to play catch-up. That’s a tough spot against a team that was rolling.

While Reid talks of his own team’s struggles, he also gives credit to their opponent for their flawless game plan. “Credit to them, they played one hell of a football game,” he admitted. “I mean, frankly, they were dominant in the game from the first three quarters.” Despite being two-time defending champions, the Chiefs struggled and were completely outplayed by their opponents. Their usual ability to flip a switch and take over in the second half never materialized.

This Super Bowl loss revealed a vulnerability in the Chiefs’ approach. Over the years, they’ve become known for their second-half comebacks. But Reid suggests that strategy may no longer be sustainable. Kansas City looks ahead to start faster and dictate the game from the opening snap. For Reid, who was set to enter free agency, this might have been his last game as a Chief. If so, he leaves with a blunt but valuable takeaway: “You respect an opponent that comes out and plays that hard.” Now, the question is, how will the Chiefs shape their game next year?

Chiefs lock in Mahomes’ safety net: Andy Reid finds his backup QB

The Chiefs have been busy planning this offseason to get another Lombardi and put their ‘dynasty’ reputation back on track. They are addressing some critical needs. One of those was to secure a reliable backup for star QB Patrick Mahomes. HC Andy Reid and the Chiefs’ front office made it official that they have signed veteran QB Gardner Minshew to a one-year deal. Minshew is known for his play style and his memorable mustache. The Kingdom hopes he brings experience and flair to the Chiefs’ QB room.

Minshew’s journey through the NFL is, what you call, a rollercoaster. After making a splash with the Jacksonville Jaguars, he had stints with the Philadelphia Eagles, Indianapolis Colts, and most recently, the Las Vegas Raiders. Last season with the Raiders, Minshew started 9 games, showing his ability to step in and lead an offense when called upon. His experience as a starter makes him a valuable asset for the Chiefs as a great safety net for Mahomes.

But the Chiefs didn’t stop there. In a move that surprised many, they re-signed QB Bailey Zappe to a one-year contract, as confirmed by Tom Pelissero. Zappe finished last season in Kansas City and built a reputation for his strong arm and quick decision-making. His familiarity with the Chiefs’ offensive system strengthens the quarterback roster and helps the team stay prepared for any scenario.

These signings show a strategic approach by Andy Reid and the Chiefs’ management. By bringing in experienced QBs with knowledge of the system they keep their O-line potent, even in the case that Mahomes is sidelined. This proactive strategy safeguards the team’s Super Bowl aspirations and develops healthy competition within the squad. With Minshew and Zappe on board, the Chiefs’ quarterback room seems all set for 2025. Which department should they look at next?