You’ve got the dip ready, the lucky jersey is pulled out of the dryer, and you’re scrolling through the TV guide looking for the channel. But there’s a massive problem. If you’re asking where do the chiefs play sunday, the answer is actually a tough pill to swallow for the Kingdom: they aren't playing anywhere.
For the first time in nearly a decade, the Kansas City Chiefs have been officially sidelined during the heart of the NFL postseason. It feels weird, right? We’re so used to seeing Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce deep in the hunt for another ring by mid-January. Usually, this time of year involves Arrowhead Stadium vibrating under the feet of eighty thousand screaming fans or the team boarding a flight to a hostile AFC rival’s turf.
Not today.
The reality is that the Chiefs' 2025 season came to an abrupt, disappointing end on January 4, 2026. After a grueling 17-game stretch that saw the team struggle with uncharacteristic injuries and a stagnant offense, they finished with a 6-11 record. That final loss to the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium was the nail in the coffin.
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The Empty Sunday Schedule
Since the Chiefs didn't make the cut for the 2026 NFL Playoffs, Sunday, January 18, belongs to the teams still alive in the Divisional Round. While you won't find the red and gold on your screen, there is plenty of high-stakes football happening.
The NFL schedule for today features two massive matchups:
- Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots: This AFC showdown kicks off at 3:00 PM ET at Gillette Stadium. This is the slot the Chiefs used to own.
- Los Angeles Rams vs. Chicago Bears: Over in the NFC, the Rams travel to the frozen tundra of Soldier Field for a 6:30 PM ET kickoff.
It’s a strange vibe in Kansas City. Instead of game-day traffic and tailgates, the players are likely halfway through their first real vacations in years. Honestly, some of them probably need the rest. Patrick Mahomes is currently in the middle of a significant rehab process for his late-season injury, aiming to be 100% by the 2026 opener in September.
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Why the Chiefs Are Watching From Home
You might be wondering how a dynasty falls this fast. It wasn't just one thing. It was a perfect storm of bad luck and aging rosters.
- The Injury Bug: Mahomes wasn't himself for the last six weeks of the season. When your $500 million quarterback is limping, the whole playbook shrinks.
- Defensive Regression: The "Spags" magic seemed to wear thin this year. The defense, which carried the team in previous Super Bowl runs, struggled to get off the field on third downs.
- The AFC West Got Better: While the Chiefs stumbled, the Denver Broncos surged, finishing 14-3 and securing the No. 1 seed in the AFC. They are the ones playing at home this weekend against the Buffalo Bills.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
Just because they aren't playing this Sunday doesn't mean the work has stopped. The front office is already pivoting toward the NFL Draft and free agency. Because of their 6-11 finish, the Chiefs will have their highest draft pick in years.
We already know who they will face next year, even if the exact dates won't be out until May. They’ll be hosting the San Francisco 49ers and the Arizona Cardinals at Arrowhead. They also have a brutal road slate that includes trips to Miami and Seattle.
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If you're still looking for a reason to watch football today, think of it as scouting. The Texans and Patriots are currently the bar in the AFC. To get back to playing on Sundays in January, the Chiefs have to figure out how to beat the teams currently occupying their spot.
Your Game Day Next Steps
Since the Chiefs aren't playing, here is how you should handle your Sunday:
- Check the Draft Order: Keep an eye on the teams winning today. Their success affects where the Chiefs land in the draft hierarchy.
- Monitor Mahomes’ Rehab: Follow official team reporters like Matt McMullen for updates on the QB’s recovery progress.
- Watch the Broncos-Bills Game: This is the preview of the team the Chiefs have to leapfrog next year to reclaim the AFC West crown.
The dynasty isn't dead, but it’s definitely taking a nap. Enjoy the stress-free football while it lasts, because the 2026 comeback trail starts now.