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Sports

Chiefs Named NFL’s Most Likely Team to Improve

ESPN projects the Chiefs to rebound in 2026, citing roster moves and situational play as key factors.

The Briefly Pulse Desk August 25, 2026 1 min read 3 views
Chiefs Named NFL's Most Likely Team to Improve

The update

ESPN projects the Kansas City Chiefs as the NFL team most likely to improve in the 2026 season. The prediction follows a 6-11 finish last year, a record that marked a significant drop from the previous year’s performance. Analysts point to the team’s roster construction and situational play as primary reasons for the projected turnaround.

Why it matters

The Chiefs’ potential improvement is particularly significant given the franchise’s recent volatility. After going undefeated in one-score games during the 2024 season, the team faltered in nearly every tight contest in 2025 with poor situational play. This dramatic shift highlights how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL. For a franchise that has been a consistent contender during the Patrick Mahomes era, a return to playoff contention would mark a significant rebound from their recent struggles.

What to watch

Watch how the Chiefs perform in close, one-score games. Situational play in the final minutes of contests is expected to be a key factor in their success. Additionally, monitor the impact of roster moves made during the offseason.

Sources

  • espn.com — ESPN's projection of the Chiefs as the most likely team to improve and the reasoning provided (roster construction, situational play).
  • SB Nation — Confirmation of the Chiefs leading ESPN's list and context on their 6-11 record and playoff outlook.
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