The Kansas City Chiefs, a franchise synonymous with offensive brilliance and championship pedigree, find themselves in an unfamiliar and unsettling predicament as the 2025 NFL season unfolds. What many anticipated would be another dominant march towards a Super Bowl ring has instead been marred by an alarming offensive slump, leaving fans, analysts, and even casual observers scratching their heads in collective bewilderment. This isn’t just a temporary dip in form; it signals a fundamental crisis that threatens to derail a season brimming with championship aspirations.

The struggles were laid bare in their recent “pyrrhic victory” against the New York Giants on Sunday Night Football. While a win is a win, the manner in which it was secured offered little solace. Expected to showcase the explosive, high-octane offense that has become the Chiefs’ trademark, the game instead presented a unit struggling for identity and rhythm. The usual fireworks display was replaced by a grinding, often frustrating affair, raising more questions than it answered. It was the kind of victory that leaves a lingering doubt, prompting reflection on whether this team truly possesses the mettle to go the distance, especially for a franchise built on outscoring opponents in high-stakes moments. This workmanlike approach represents a significant departure from the norm, amplified by the fact they needed every ounce of effort to dispatch a team few considered a legitimate threat.

Perhaps most concerning is that the struggles aren’t confined to role players. The very cornerstones of the Chiefs’ offensive success – quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid – have come under unprecedented scrutiny. This dynamic duo, responsible for one of the most successful partnerships in modern NFL history, is suddenly facing questions about their ability to recapture the magic that once defined their collaboration. Patrick Mahomes, the generational talent who redefined quarterback excellence, has appeared constrained, limited, and, dare we say, at times, ordinary. The improvised magic, the physics-defying off-platform throws, the uncanny ability to extend plays and create something out of nothing – these trademark Mahomes qualities have been conspicuously absent or significantly diminished. Fans, accustomed to weekly miracles, have instead witnessed a version of their quarterback that seems almost too human.

Andy Reid, the offensive mastermind whose play-calling prowess and ability to scheme players open made him one of the greatest coaches ever, has also faced criticism. His typically creative play designs and innovative concepts seem to have given way to a more conservative, predictable approach, failing to generate the explosive plays the Chiefs desperately need. Whether this shift is intentional or a forced response to personnel limitations remains a subject of intense debate. The once telepathic connection between Mahomes and Reid, built on trust, communication, and a shared understanding of attacking defenses, now appears fractured, uncertain, and lacking its usual fluidity. Timing on routes seems off, decision-making has been questionable, and overall execution has fallen well short of the lofty standards they’ve established.

While Mahomes and Reid’s performances are undoubtedly contributing factors, it would be unfair to place the entire burden of blame on their shoulders. The Chiefs have been decimated by a perfect storm of injuries to key offensive players. The loss of their top two wide receivers represents a catastrophic blow to an offense already facing questions about its receiving depth. Kadarius Toney, who had emerged as a legitimate number one receiving option and developed tremendous chemistry with Mahomes, is currently sidelined. His absence removes a crucial element from the Kansas City passing attack – a receiver who could win in multiple ways, whether by creating separation with crisp route running, winning contested catches, or generating yards after the catch with his elusiveness. He had become a vital security blanket for Mahomes, particularly in critical down-and-distance situations.

Xavier Worthy, the explosive deep threat brought in to add a vertical dimension, is also out of action. Worthy’s speed stretched defenses, creating opportunities for other receivers underneath. His presence forced defensive coordinators to account for the deep ball, opening up the intermediate and short passing game. Without Worthy’s game-breaking speed to keep safeties honest, opposing defenses have been able to play more aggressively in the short and intermediate areas, making life considerably more difficult for Mahomes and the remaining pass-catchers. The simultaneous absence of both Toney and Worthy has created a ripple effect throughout the entire offensive structure. Receivers forced into expanded roles were not necessarily prepared for the increased workload and attention. Game planning has become more predictable, as Kansas City simply lacks the personnel to threaten defenses in the diverse ways they have in previous seasons. What was once one of the NFL’s most varied and unpredictable passing attacks has become somewhat one-dimensional and easier to defend.

Adding to these woes is the undeniable reality of Travis Kelce’s decline. The future Hall of Fame tight end, Mahomes’ favorite target for years, is no longer the dominant force he once was. This isn’t to say Kelce is ineffective; he remains a productive player. However, the elite-level production that made him arguably the best tight end in football for a decade has diminished. This decline is not unexpected; Father Time remains undefeated in professional sports. Tight ends relying on route running precision, timing, and the ability to create separation against younger, faster defenders inevitably see their effectiveness wane with age. Kelce’s drop in production is a natural part of the athletic aging process, but it’s no less problematic for an offense that has leaned so heavily on his contributions. In previous seasons, when a critical first down or clutch catch was needed, Mahomes could almost always find Kelce open. That security blanket effect, that unwavering trust, gave Mahomes immense confidence. Now, while still reliable, Kelce is no longer the mismatch creator who could single-handedly bend defenses to his will. Linebackers who once struggled to cover him now feel more confident. The psychological impact of this cannot be understated; Mahomes’ telepathic connection with his tight end provided the foundation for the entire passing game. As Kelce’s dominance has decreased, Mahomes has been forced to look elsewhere and trust other players, an adjustment that has not been seamless, evident in the offense’s overall performance. Furthermore, Kelce’s reduced effectiveness allows opposing defenses to allocate resources differently. Previously, significant attention was devoted to limiting Kelce, creating opportunities for other receivers. With his threat level diminished and the top two receivers sidelined, defenses can now focus on shutting down the remaining options without worrying as much about being beaten by the tight end.

Given the severity of these offensive struggles and personnel limitations, it’s no surprise that trade rumors are swirling. One name that has emerged as a potential solution to Kansas City’s receiver woes is Chris Olave, the talented wide receiver from the struggling New Orleans Saints. The connection makes sense on multiple levels, and a recent trade proposal has gained significant traction. John Sigler of USA Today’s Saints Wire has made a compelling case for why the Saints might consider moving their top receiver and why the Chiefs could be the perfect landing spot. This represents the kind of bold, aggressive move championship-contending teams sometimes need to make when facing unexpected adversity. For Kansas City, acquiring a player of Olave’s caliber could transform their offense overnight, providing Mahomes with the reliable, talented receiving option that has been sorely missing.

Chris Olave represents everything the Chiefs need: a polished route runner with technical precision to create separation against any coverage. His development at Ohio State instilled in him fundamentals that translate seamlessly to the professional level. Olave’s ability to win at all three levels of the field – short, intermediate, and deep – would restore the versatility in Andy Reid’s play-calling that has been absent this season. His journey, marked by consistent production and improvement at Ohio State, prepared him for the NFL’s speed and complexity. While his rookie transition had challenges, he showed maturity and professionalism, contributing immediately and flashing star potential. He continued to refine his craft, expanding his skillset through his early years in New Orleans, maintaining consistency even amidst suboptimal circumstances.

What makes Olave particularly intriguing is his recent performance despite adversity. Returning from a significant concussion earlier in the 2025 season, he has shown no ill effects and has been one of the few bright spots in a dysfunctional Saints offense. Quarterback instability, offensive line issues, and play-calling problems have plagued New Orleans, yet Olave has consistently delivered quality performances, finding ways to get open, make catches, and move the chains despite having perhaps the worst supporting cast of any number one receiver in the league. His ability to produce under such adverse circumstances speaks volumes about his talent and mental toughness, suggesting his skills are not dependent on optimal conditions or elite quarterback play. For a team boasting Patrick Mahomes, the prospect of what Olave could accomplish with competent quarterback play and a functional offensive system is tantalizing. The consistency since his return also addresses concerns about lingering effects from his concussion.

Financially, Olave’s contract situation makes him even more appealing. According to Sigler’s analysis, he has just under two years remaining on his rookie deal, with the Saints having picked up his fifth-year option for 2026. This means any acquiring team would get his services for the remainder of the current season plus all of next year at a salary cap hit of $15.5 million for 2026. In today’s receiver market, where top talents command over $25 million annually, getting Olave for $15.5 million represents tremendous value. This rookie contract structure provides cost certainty and flexibility for a contending team like Kansas City, allowing them to allocate resources elsewhere while still acquiring a talented receiver. However, Sigler also points out that Olave will eventually seek a multi-year extension worth approximately $30 million per year. This significant financial commitment would require careful planning, impacting their ability to retain other key players or add talent via free agency. The advantage for the Chiefs is a trial period – the remainder of this season and all of next – to evaluate his fit and chemistry with Mahomes before making that long-term investment.

The critical question is the cost. Sigler compares Olave’s situation to A.J. Brown’s trade to the Eagles, which cost a first-round and third-round pick. While both players have been productive, Brown’s superior touchdown production (24 vs. Olave’s 10) and Olave’s injury history (specifically the recent concussion) would likely lower his trade value. Sigler suggests a late first-round or early second-round pick could be sufficient. For the Chiefs, a first-round pick is a significant commitment, signaling championship aspirations. However, for a team built to win now with a prime quarterback, exchanging a late first-rounder (likely in the 25-32 range) for a proven commodity like Olave could be seen as trading uncertainty for certainty. An early second-round pick would be even more favorable, addressing an immediate need without completely mortgaging the future.

Comparing Olave to elite receivers like Justin Jefferson, Ja’Marr Chase, CeeDee Lamb, and Tyreek Hill provides crucial context. While Olave and Brown are legitimate number one receivers capable of serving as primary options, the elite tier possesses a truly transcendent, game-breaking ability that sets them apart. These are players who can single-handedly change a franchise’s fortunes and inspire fear in opponents. Olave, while excellent, has not yet demonstrated he belongs in this highest echelon. He is a very good, possibly great, receiver, but not someone who will completely transform an offense on his own. Rather, he excels within a well-designed system and makes those around him better through reliability and consistency. The Chiefs, having experienced Tyreek Hill’s game-breaking talent, know what that elite level feels like. Olave wouldn’t replace Hill, but he could provide the reliable, professional, skilled receiver Mahomes desperately needs in critical situations.

Despite the hefty price tag, compelling arguments favor making the trade. The most obvious is the Chiefs’ championship window with Patrick Mahomes. Every season is “championship or bust,” and failing to maximize these opportunities due to an inadequate supporting cast would be organizational malpractice. The Chiefs have a history of aggressive moves in pursuit of championships, and the Olave trade would fit this philosophy of sacrificing future assets to maximize present odds. The contract value he provides for the next two seasons offers tremendous flexibility, allowing them to compete while planning for a long-term extension. His ability to produce despite suboptimal quarterback play in New Orleans suggests he would thrive with Mahomes and Reid, promising a significant jump in production. The mental and psychological boost for the locker room, signaling the organization’s commitment to winning, cannot be underestimated. Strategically, adding Olave would also help weather future injuries, providing depth and insulating the offense from complete collapse.

Conversely, not making a move carries its own risks. Standing pat and hoping current receivers get healthy and productive is a gamble on factors outside their control. Being passive in the face of obvious need could be more costly than surrendering a first-round pick. However, significant risks and concerns accompany such a trade. Olave’s injury history, particularly the concussion, is a major concern, given the unpredictable long-term consequences of head injuries. While he has played well since returning, the risk of recurrence or future issues remains. The opportunity cost of a first-round pick – foregoing young, cost-controlled talent – is also substantial for a team managing its salary cap. No trade is guaranteed to work out; scheme fit, chemistry, and adjustment to new surroundings can impact performance. What if Olave struggles in Reid’s offense or doesn’t mesh with Mahomes? The financial implications of a $30 million per year extension could hamstring future flexibility if he declines or suffers a career-ending injury. The message sent to current players, potentially damaging confidence or creating resentment, is another dynamic to consider. Furthermore, if Rice and Worthy return healthy and perform at high levels, the Olave acquisition could become somewhat redundant, depleting draft resources for a luxury rather than a necessity.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on how the Kansas City Chiefs evaluate their current situation and championship window. If offensive struggles are primarily personnel-based and adding a quality receiver like Olave solves them, the trade makes immense sense. However, if the issues run deeper – stemming from scheme adjustments, offensive line decline, or other factors – then a trade might be premature. Making a panic move without properly diagnosing underlying issues can lead to disappointing results. General Manager Brett Veach and his staff must conduct thorough evaluations of both Olave and their own offensive situation, diving into film, having honest conversations with coaches, and conducting extensive medical reviews. This decision is inherently complex, with no obvious right answer, highlighting the challenging nature of being an NFL general manager. For Chiefs fans, the speculation and debate around a potential Olave trade represent the high-stakes drama that makes following the NFL so compelling, balancing tremendous possibility with significant risk.