The Kansas City Chiefs kicked off their 2026 training camp at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph this week, and the energy was palpable from the moment players reported. Coming off a frustrating playoff exit last season, the Chiefs have made it clear that anything short of a Super Bowl appearance will be considered a disappointment.
Patrick Mahomes was his usual electric self during the opening practice, threading passes into tight windows and improvising on broken plays as if it were January. The two-time NFL MVP reportedly arrived in the best shape of his career, having spent the offseason refining his footwork and studying film of defenses that gave the Chiefs trouble in 2025.
The Chiefs made several notable roster moves in the offseason, bolstering their offensive line with a first-round draft pick and adding a veteran wide receiver in free agency to complement their existing weapons. The defense, which struggled at times against the run last season, has been reshaped with a new defensive tackle and a speedier linebacker corps.
On the defensive side, coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is experimenting with more sub-package looks, blitzing from different angles to maximize pressure without sacrificing coverage. The early returns are encouraging, with the first-team defense generating consistent pressure during 11-on-11 drills.
Training camp runs through mid-August, with three preseason games scheduled before the regular season opener. The Chiefs will open the season at Arrowhead Stadium in front of what is expected to be a sold-out crowd.
