The Kansas City Chiefs have secured the top seed in the AFC playoffs with a remarkable 15-1 record, following their victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas Day. This dominant performance has positioned them two games ahead of the Buffalo Bills as they head into the final week of the regular season. Their upcoming matchup against the Denver Broncos is rendered meaningless, given their playoff standing, leading to questions about whether the Chiefs will rest their key starters in Week 18.
Reports suggest that the Chiefs are indeed planning to sit several of their starters. FOX NFL Insider Jay Glazer indicated that the team is prioritizing health as they prepare for the playoffs, stating that key players like Patrick Mahomes, Isiah Pacheco, DeAndre Hopkins, and Travis Kelce are expected to be sidelined for the game against the Broncos. This decision is consistent with head coach Andy Reid's past approach to meaningless games, as he has previously rested starters to ensure they remain healthy for the postseason.
As a result, the Chiefs' offense will see significant changes in Week 18. Carson Wentz is poised to make his first start of the season, and the backfield will likely be led by Samaje Perine and Carson Steele. With the absence of several star players, fantasy managers should adjust their expectations accordingly, looking to other players like JuJu Smith-Schuster and Justin Watson to step up in the passing game.
