Building on the high-stakes Week 15 preview, the Kansas City Chiefs lost 16-13 to the Los Angeles Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium, ending their 10-year playoff streak. Patrick Mahomes exited late with a confirmed torn ACL in his left knee, dashing postseason hopes.
The defensive struggle sealed Kansas City's elimination from the 2025 NFL playoffs, as other key results (wins by Bills, Jaguars, Texans) locked them out—the second-longest streak in NFL history behind the Patriots' 11 years.
Mahomes completed 16 of 28 passes for 189 yards, no TDs, one INT, and five sacks, plus 15 rushing yards and a TD on two carries. With 1:53 left, he rolled right, threw the ball away, but was tackled by Chargers' Da'Shawn Hand, twisting his left leg. He stayed down in pain before limping off.
MRI confirmed the season-ending ACL tear; surgery options are under review. Mahomes posted on X: "Don't know why this had to happen. And not going to lie it's hurts. But all we can do now is Trust in God and attack every single day over and over again. Thank you Chiefs kingdom for always supporting me and for everyone who has reached out and sent prayers. I Will be back stronger than ever."
Gardner Minshew's final-drive INT clinched the Chargers' win. At 6-8, the Chiefs face the Titans in Week 16. This is the first playoff miss in Mahomes' career, closing a dominant era with three Super Bowls.