Patrick Mahomes Blunt After Loss: “We Didn’t Play to Our Standard — Chargers Brought More Energy”
The Kansas City Chiefs entered the 2025 NFL season with high expectations and a fresh slate, but their opener in Brazil against the Los Angeles Chargers didn’t go as planned. In a close 21-27 defeat, the Chiefs failed to find their rhythm early, and quarterback Patrick Mahomes was candid about what went wrong—and what needs to change moving forward.
First Half Struggles: Energy and Execution Lacking
The Chiefs’ offense sputtered from the start, going scoreless in the first quarter and punting on their first three drives. Despite a promising offseason focused on upgrading the offensive line, the unit couldn’t spark the big plays that have become a hallmark of Kansas City football. The early loss of rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy only compounded the challenge, forcing Mahomes and company to adjust on the fly.
By halftime, the Chiefs had managed just two field goals, trailing a Chargers team that came out with noticeably more energy and focus. Mahomes didn’t mince words in his postgame assessment.
“It was not good enough,” Mahomes said. “I think in general they came out with more energy than we did. The defense and our offense. We did not execute; I missed some throws down the field, and obviously, we did not play good enough in the first half.”
Mahomes: “A Learning Moment for the Young Guys”
Mahomes emphasized that the sluggish start wasn’t just about missed opportunities—it was about mindset.
“It is hard to say, I felt like we had energy yesterday in practice and all throughout the week. But when you do not come out and play with the right mindset, you get beaten, and the Chargers came out with the right mindset, and we did not, and they beat us.”
For a team packed with new faces and young talent, Mahomes sees the loss as a valuable lesson.
“When you don’t come out and play in the right mindset, you get beat. It’s a learning moment for the young guys on the team. We’re going to get everyone’s best. We didn’t play to our standard. Everybody. Offense, defense, special teams.”
Offensive Line Shows Promise
One bright spot was the Chiefs’ revamped offensive line, which had been a major question mark throughout the offseason. Despite the offensive struggles, the line held its own and showed signs of improvement compared to previous years. As the season progresses, their continued development will be crucial to the team’s success.
Next Steps: Faster Starts and Greater Focus
The Chiefs now turn their attention to Week 2, knowing that a quicker start and sharper execution are essential. Mahomes, ever the leader, is focused on setting the tone for his teammates—especially the younger players who are still adjusting to the NFL’s intensity.
As the Chiefs regroup, Mahomes’ message is clear: the standard in Kansas City is high, and anything less won’t be enough.
Bottom Line
The Chiefs’ Week 1 loss to the Chargers was a wake-up call. With Mahomes leading the charge, the team is determined to learn from their mistakes, recapture their trademark energy, and get back to playing championship-caliber football. If history is any guide, expect Kansas City to respond with urgency—and for Mahomes to set the pace.
Patrick Mahomes knows what winning looks like—and after a disappointing start, he’s making sure the Chiefs remember what it takes to play at their best. Week 2 offers a chance to reset, refocus, and reignite the fire that has made Kansas City one of the NFL’s elite teams.
