On FS1 this week, former Super Bowl champion and analyst Mark Schlereth dropped a bombshell that has fans buzzing and rivals licking their chops. “There feels like there’s this league-wide sense that this is the first time in Mahomes’ tenure in Kansas City that they’re vulnerable,” Schlereth declared. “That somebody else could win this division.”
A Dynasty Under Threat?
Schlereth’s words hit like a thunderclap. Since Mahomes took over as starter in 2018, the Chiefs have rattled off six straight AFC West titles, appeared in four Super Bowls, and lifted the Lombardi Trophy twice. They’ve turned Arrowhead Stadium into a fortress and Mahomes into a generational icon.
But the 2024 season revealed cracks in the armor. A shaky offensive line, inconsistent wide receiver play, and a defense that looked mortal at times had critics whispering: were the Chiefs finally beatable? Schlereth’s comments have now taken those whispers and amplified them into a full-blown league-wide debate.
Rivals Smelling Blood
The AFC West is no stranger to high expectations, but for years Denver, Las Vegas, and the L.A. Chargers have been forced to live in the Chiefs’ shadow. Now, with Schlereth’s words fueling the fire, those rivals suddenly see opportunity.
The Broncos, under Sean Payton, believe their rebuilt roster can compete. The Chargers, with Justin Herbert, are desperate to prove they can turn potential into results. Even the Raiders, in the midst of transition, see Mahomes and the Chiefs as “not invincible anymore.”
“Every locker room in this division believes this is their shot,” one AFC West scout told reporters. “They’re not bowing down to Kansas City this year.”
Chiefs Kingdom Fires Back
Of course, Chiefs fans aren’t buying the doom-and-gloom narrative. Social media lit up immediately after Schlereth’s comments, with supporters flooding timelines with clips of Mahomes’ miracle throws, Travis Kelce’s clutch catches, and Andy Reid’s legendary play-calling.
“Every year they say the Chiefs are done,” one fan tweeted. “And every year, Mahomes reminds the league who’s boss.” Another simply wrote: “Doubt him at your own risk.”
The Mahomes Factor
At the heart of the debate is one undeniable truth: the Chiefs still have Patrick Mahomes. The quarterback has proven time and again that he thrives when challenged. From double-digit playoff comebacks to Super Bowl heroics, Mahomes has built a career on silencing doubters.
That’s why, even as Schlereth’s words ripple through the league, there’s a countercurrent of fear among rivals: what if questioning Mahomes only lights the fuse for another legendary run?
The Bottom Line
Mark Schlereth may have voiced what some inside the league have been thinking — that Kansas City’s reign could be nearing its end. But history suggests betting against Mahomes is dangerous business.
The Chiefs might be vulnerable. Or they might be preparing, once again, to turn doubt into dominance. Either way, the AFC West is bracing for a season of fireworks.
