Something special is brewing in Kansas City. Even the players feel it.
As the Chiefs basked in the afterglow of a legitimate whalloping of the Las Vegas Raiders at home in Week 7, the state of the offense became a national talking point. As it turns out, it wasn't just a thrilling showcase for those of us watching from the outside. The weapons around Patrick Mahomes are enjoying the ride just as much—if not more—than the rest of Chiefs Kingdom.
"It’s a lot of fun. We were joking around in the huddle, just looking around like, ‘This is crazy," said Chiefs receiver Hollywood Brown after the game.
Brown was one of nine Chiefs players to catch a pass from Mahomes in a 31-0 victory that served as the most complete effort by Kansas City all season. Brown was fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of one of Mahomes' three touchdown passes on the day before the offense gave way to Gardner Minshew and several more backups in the fourth quarter.
Chiefs players know they're involved with something special with this year's offense.
"We know it’s hard to beat Pat by himself, and we’ve got so many weapons on offense, it’s tough. It’s tough, you know? So we’ve just got to focus on what we’re doing in the building, being there where he needs us to be. He’s playing lights out, so it’s been fun," added Brown.
The cadre of weapons was completed with the arrival of Rashee Rice on Sunday, his first game back after more than a year away from football. After suffering a season-ending injury last season in late September, Rice was also shelved for the first six weeks of the 2025 campaign with a suspension. On Sunday, however, he led the team with 10 targets and forced the Raiders defense to wilt quickly in the face of so many options for Mahomes.
One player enjoying the ride is taking it all in as he adjusts to the league at the same time. Rookie running back Brashard Smith is becoming a more significant part of the game plan with each passing week, including 19 touches on Sunday against the Raiders. He knows he's a part of something "special" in his first NFL season.
"It’s special for sure," said Smith. "I love seeing that. It gives you goosebumps with just what we have. I like being a part of it for sure."
While the Chiefs are on cloud nine following Week 7, some players feel the best is yet to come, even after such a historic one-sided contest. Tight end Travis Kelce says more time together with Rice will only improve what is already an elite offense.
"Man, I think it’s just a glimpse of what you’re gonna see from here on out … As long as we all keep playing unselfish and getting excited for each other, the sky is the limit," said Kelce.
That much remains to be seen, but the fun continues with an extra day off ahead of the Chiefs. They face the Washington Commanders in primetime on Monday Night Football in Week 8. Given their momentum, all eyes will be on K.C. to see what they will do next.