LIVE: Chiefs open 2026 season against Broncos at Arrowhead

Key Points:

• The 2026 NFL season kicks off with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Denver Broncos, who ended the Chiefs' AFC West dominance in 2025. Both teams feature quarterbacks returning from injury: Patrick Mahomes for the Chiefs and Bo Nix for the Broncos.
• The Broncos have bolstered their offense by adding wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, complementing Courtland Sutton, while the Chiefs face challenges with the absence of starting left tackle Josh Simmons and a revamped secondary.
• Key coaching storylines include Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy's return and Broncos offensive coordinator Davis Webb taking over play-calling duties from Sean Payton, adding intrigue to strategic matchups.
• Kansas City's running game is under scrutiny with new additions Kenneth Walker III and Emmett Johnson, as the team aims to improve offensive balance and red-zone efficiency, areas that declined in recent seasons.
• Defensively, the Chiefs seek to improve their third-down defense and pass rush effectiveness against a strong Broncos offense, with new defensive personnel expected to be tested early in the season.