While the season has taken a turn from what they had hoped for in the preseason, the Kansas City Chiefs, once considered Super Bowl favorites, find themselves at 6-10 and out of the playoffs after three consecutive appearances in the championship game. This is a moment to confront the reality of a roster that needs a soft reset to prepare for the next chapter of Patrick Mahomes’ career.

Mahomes, who suffered a torn ACL, is questionable for the first few weeks of the 2026 regular season. However, the 2025 season will come to an end this weekend as the Chiefs take on the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Let’s explore what a win and a loss could mean for Kansas City as they aim to finish the year on a strong note in Las Vegas.

What a Win Means

The Chiefs would greatly appreciate finishing the year on a positive note after a series of poor performances in close games. They are taking a thorough look at key positions to determine where improvements are needed for the future. It’s an unusual and unexpected time for Kansas City, but the close victories from last year were not sustainable long-term, and the team’s weaknesses have become apparent.

A win for the Chiefs would be a great way to wrap up the season, which has been filled with disappointment and heartbreak, especially with so many close losses. It would signal that several younger players performed admirably against a Raiders team that is playing with nothing to lose but the No. 1 overall selection in this year’s NFL Draft. It would also serve as a fitting conclusion to what could be the final game of Travis Kelce’s career, a player who has brought the Chiefs countless memorable moments while leading them to multiple Super Bowls.

What a Loss Means

The Chiefs’ 2025-2026 season can’t get any worse, right? We’ve seen some surprising developments with them in recent weeks, including a heavy defeat by a previously underwhelming Tennessee Titans team. A loss wouldn’t just be disappointing; it would be embarrassing, especially since the Raiders are competing hard to secure the No. 1 overall draft pick in April’s draft.

However, depending on how events unfold across the league and on Sunday, a loss in Las Vegas could significantly improve the Chiefs’ draft position, potentially landing them in the Top 10. If Kansas City and general manager Brett Veach end up with a first-round pick within the top 10, it would give them a strong opportunity to select one of the top prospects in this year’s draft, which would be a major advantage for the rest of the NFL.

What the Chiefs Need Against the Raiders

The importance of Week 18 for the Chiefs cannot be overstated. A strong performance in this final game could provide momentum for the future and send a message about the team’s resilience. The offensive line, in particular, has been a focal point of attention, as they face a challenging defensive unit in Las Vegas. A solid showing from the linemen could help set the tone for the entire team.

Key Moments and Trends

• Allegiant Stadium Winning Streak: The Chiefs have built a strong record at Allegiant Stadium, and maintaining that streak would be a significant achievement.
• NFL Nails Chiefs Lineman on Fine Day: The offensive line has shown flashes of brilliance, and a strong performance could be pivotal in securing a win.
• Chiefs’ Season Finale: This game represents more than just a final match—it’s a chance to leave a lasting impression and set the stage for the upcoming draft.

This article was originally published on www.si.com/nfl/chiefs/onsi as What a Win (and Loss) Means for the Chiefs in Season Finale vs. Raiders.