Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs

Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs outlines the Kansas City Chiefs’ latest roster adjustments and positional hierarchies as they prepare for their critical Sunday Night Football matchup against the Baltimore Ravens— a game that could decide the AFC’s top seed. With two key players returning from injury and one late scratch due to a minor ailment, the Chiefs’ depth chart has shifted significantly since their last game, reflecting both opportunity and caution. Head coach Andy Reid confirmed the updates in a Friday press conference, emphasizing that the changes are “designed to put our best players on the field while keeping them healthy for the stretch run.” Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs underscores how these tweaks aren’t just about filling spots—they’re about optimizing matchups against the Ravens’ balanced offense and stingy defense, ensuring the Chiefs have the flexibility to adapt mid-game.

Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs begins with the most stable (yet crucial) position group: quarterback. Patrick Mahomes remains the undisputed starter, with no changes to his role—his recent form (16 touchdowns, 2 interceptions during the six-game win streak) has solidified his status as the offense’s engine. Behind him, Blaine Gabbert retains the backup spot, though he’s seen limited action this season (just 12 snaps, all in garbage time). The only subtle shift here is in practice reps: third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun has received extra snaps this week to prepare for emergency scenarios, though Reid stressed, “We don’t expect to need Chris, but you never know in this league—preparation is key.” This stability at quarterback contrasts with other position groups, where injuries and returns have forced more significant changes. Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs notes that while Mahomes’ role is secure, the offense’s success will depend on the supporting cast around him—many of whom have new roles in the updated depth chart.

Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs delves into the running back and wide receiver groups, where recent returns have reshaped the hierarchy. At running back, Isiah Pacheco remains the starter, but the Chiefs have welcomed back Jerick McKinnon from a four-week hamstring injury—McKinnon slides in as the clear No. 2, pushing Marcus Marshall to third string. McKinnon’s return is critical: his pass-blocking skills and ability to catch out of the backfield will help the Chiefs counter the Ravens’ blitz-heavy defense, which has sacked quarterbacks 38 times this season. “Jerick gives us a different dimension,” said running backs coach Greg Lewis. “He can pick up blitzes, make plays in the flat, and spell Pacheco when we need to keep Isiah fresh.” At wide receiver, the top two spots remain locked: Tyreek Hill (No. 1) and Xavier Worthy (No. 2) will start, but Marquez Valdes-Scantling has been elevated to No. 3 after Justyn Ross was ruled out with a minor ankle sprain. Valdes-Scantling’s deep-ball ability (he averages 18 yards per catch) will be key against the Ravens’ secondary, which has struggled to contain vertical threats. Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs recognizes that these changes at skill positions aren’t just about depth—they’re about matching the Ravens’ strengths and exploiting their weaknesses.

Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs underscores how the Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive line has seen the most impactful updates, with two key players returning to the fold. Chris Jones remains the anchor at defensive tackle, but the Chiefs have activated Frank Clark from injured reserve (knee) after a six-week absence—Clark slides in as the starting defensive end opposite George Karlaftis, pushing Charles Omenihu to No. 3. Clark’s return is a game-changer: he’s recorded 45 sacks in five seasons with the Chiefs and has a history of disrupting elite quarterbacks (he sacked Lamar Jackson twice in their 2023 matchup). “Frank brings a level of intensity and experience that we’ve missed,” said defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. “He knows how to get to the quarterback, and he’ll make Lamar’s life harder on Sunday.” The only other change on the defensive line is at backup tackle: rookie BJ Thompson has moved up to No. 2 behind Jones, replacing Derrick Nnadi, who’s dealing with a shoulder injury. Thompson, a fifth-round pick, has impressed in limited action (4 sacks in 10 games) and will be counted on to spell Jones in passing situations. The Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive line depth—once a concern—now looks robust, giving Spagnuolo the flexibility to rotate players and keep the pass rush fresh against the Ravens’ durable offensive line.

Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs highlights how the Kansas City Chiefs’ secondary has been adjusted to counter the Ravens’ passing attack, which features tight end Mark Andrews and wide receiver Zay Flowers. At cornerback, L’Jarius Sneed and Trent McDuffie retain their starting spots, but the Chiefs have shifted Joshua Williams to nickel corner—replacing Jaylen Watson, who’s out with a hamstring injury. Williams’ size (6’2”) and physicality make him a good fit to cover Andrews in the slot, as the Ravens often line their star tight end up inside to exploit smaller defenders. “Joshua has the length and strength to match up with Andrews,” Spagnuolo explained. “We’ve been working him in the slot all week, and he’s picked it up quickly.” At safety, Justin Reid and Mike Edwards remain the starters, with Deon Bush as the No. 3. Reid’s recent form (3 interceptions during the win streak) has made him a playmaker in the backend, and he’ll likely be tasked with covering Flowers on deep routes. The Kansas City Chiefs’ secondary adjustments are a direct response to the Ravens’ personnel—proof that the coaching staff is tailoring the depth chart to the specific challenge of Sunday’s game, not just sticking to a fixed hierarchy.

Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs concludes with how the Kansas City Chiefs’ special teams unit has been tweaked to maximize explosiveness and reliability. Harrison Butker remains the starting kicker, and Tommy Townsend is still the punter, but the return game has seen a key shift: Xavier Worthy will handle both punt and kickoff returns, replacing Kadarius Toney, who’s been limited by a quad injury. Worthy’s speed (he ran a 4.25 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine) has already paid dividends—he’s recorded two punt returns of 30+ yards this season, including a 45-yarder that set up a touchdown against the Bills. “Xavier gives us a threat in the return game that defenses have to account for,” said special teams coordinator Dave Toub. “He can turn a short return into a big play, and that’s exactly what we need against the Ravens, who have one of the league’s best special teams units.” The only other change on special teams is at long snapper: James Winchester remains the starter, but the Chiefs have added Luke Rhodes to the practice squad as insurance. The Kansas City Chiefs’ special teams depth may seem minor, but in a game that could be decided by a field goal or a big return, these adjustments could be the difference between winning and losing. Updated Depth Chart Ahead of SNF for the Kansas City Chiefs ends with a clear takeaway: the Chiefs’ updated depth chart isn’t just a list of names—it’s a strategic blueprint for Sunday night. Every shift, every return, and every elevation is designed to beat the Ravens, and with these adjustments in place, the Chiefs enter SNF ready to compete for the AFC’s top seed.