The Changing Landscape of the Kansas City Chiefs: Midseason Evaluation “dolphins vs chiefs”
In the world of professional football, consistency is often the hallmark of great teams and players. Year after year, we see the same familiar names making their mark, whether it’s in media publications or official league lists that celebrate the brightest stars in the sport. For the Kansas City Chiefs, a team known for its spectacular talent, this has been the norm. However, as the 2023 season unfolds, a different narrative is emerging. Some Chiefs players are notably absent from midseason lists, while new faces are taking the spotlight.
This shift could be seen as a sign of transition in Kansas City, moving from an era defined by Patrick Mahomes’ early years to one where his prime reigns supreme, supported by a fresh cast of talented players.
Surprise Exclusions from the Midseason All-Pro List
Pro Football Focus recently unveiled its midseason All-Pro list for the 2023 season, and it came as a surprise to many. Only three Chiefs players secured a spot on this prestigious team, and the biggest shocker of all was the absence of Patrick Mahomes. The quarterback, who is the reigning Most Valuable Player and a strong contender for the award this season, was notably missing. In his place, PFF’s metrics favored Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen.
Another notable absence from the list was Chris Jones, the dynamic defensive tackle. Although he missed the first game of the season, Jones made a powerful comeback starting in Week 2, accumulating an impressive number of pressures. However, his efforts weren’t enough to surpass the likes of Aaron Donald and Quinnen Williams in the eyes of PFF.
The Chiefs Who Made the Cut
Among the Chiefs who did secure a place on the midseason All-Pro list, one name stands out—tight end Travis Kelce. He continues to assert his dominance as the league’s best in his position, despite facing more minor injuries than usual in his 11th NFL season. Kelce leads the league in receptions and yards among tight ends, cementing his reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Joining Kelce on the All-Pro team is cornerback Trent McDuffie, who takes on a flexible role in the secondary. McDuffie’s exceptional performance has not gone unnoticed, with four forced fumbles in the current season. PFF’s metrics underscore his impact on the field, earning him a well-deserved spot.
In addition to Kelce and McDuffie, left guard Joe Thuney received recognition as the backup at his position. This nod is akin to being named the second-team All-Pro. Thuney has played a pivotal role in anchoring the Chiefs’ offensive line, especially as the team juggles various tackle options.
As the 2023 season progresses, it’s evident that the landscape of the Kansas City Chiefs is evolving. New names are rising to prominence, and established stars are facing tougher competition. While the midseason All-Pro list may have brought surprises, it also highlights the dynamism and talent that define this ever-evolving team.
