The Kansas City Chiefs hit the field Monday to open their 2025 training camp, and the energy was exactly what you’d expect from a team coming off yet another deep playoff run. Fans packed into Missouri Western State University to get their first glimpse of Patrick Mahomes and the reigning AFC West champs. Here are the top takeaways from Day 1.
1. Rashee Rice Shines in Return
Rashee Rice looked like a man on a mission. After an eventful offseason that included injury rehab, Rice was active and involved throughout team drills, hauling in multiple receptions and catching a red-zone touchdown from Mahomes. He was the most-targeted receiver during live reps and appeared to be moving at full speed — a great sign for the Chiefs’ WR room.
2. Rookie LT Josh Simmons Impresses
First-round pick Josh Simmons made his full practice debut — and wasted no time getting tossed into the mix with the first-team offensive line. Simmons, recovering from a previous knee injury, got a number of reps at left tackle and more than held his own. He’s expected to battle Jaylon Moore for the starting job, and early signs are encouraging.
3. Patrick Mahomes in Midseason Form
In true Patrick Mahomes fashion, the first-team offense started hot. Mahomes hit rookie Xavier Worthy deep down the sideline on his first pass in team drills, drawing cheers from attending fans. His chemistry with Rashee Rice, Worthy, and newcomer Marquise Brown looked sharp and ahead of schedule, a promising sign with so many new offensive pieces.
4. Offense Emphasizes Speed and Tempo
Head Coach Andy Reid continues to prioritize tempo and explosiveness. Monday’s 68-minute session featured a quick pace, minimal downtime, and plenty of downfield passes. The Chiefs clearly want to inject more big-play ability into the passing game this season — and they’ve got the weapons to do it.
5. Xavier Worthy and Marquise Brown Flash
Both wideouts showed up in a big way. Xavier Worthy’s elite speed stood out immediately as he got behind defenders for multiple deep grabs. Hollywood Brown also had a handful of strong moments during 11-on-11. The improved speed on the outside is no longer theoretical — it’s real, and it’s already causing problems for defensive backs.
6. Trey Smith Reflects on Contract Extension
Veteran guard Trey Smith spoke to reporters after practice following his offseason contract extension. He opened up on the emotional weight of the moment, sharing how he made a promise to his late mother to persevere. Smith said he’s thankful to be staying in Kansas City and committed to helping the offensive line remain one of the NFL’s best.
7. Position Battles Begin
Several notable competitions are already brewing:
- Left Tackle: Josh Simmons vs. Jaylon Moore – Simmons earned most of the first-team reps on Day 1.
- Punter: Matt Araiza and rookie Eddie Czaplicki split punting duties during special teams periods.
- D-Line Depth: Coaches began cycling in younger defenders to see who might carve out rotational roles this preseason.
8. Special Teams Work Underway
Dave Toub’s special teams unit began its early rotations. In addition to the punting battle, several players auditioned in return drills, including rookies and unproven depth receivers looking to make the roster as special teams contributors.
Looking Ahead
Day 1 is in the books — and the tone is set. Mahomes looks as sharp as ever, the offensive tempo is electric, and multiple rookies are already turning heads. Tomorrow will bring another day of practice, and as the week unfolds and pads come on, expect clarity in depth chart movement and more intensity from every unit.
Stay tuned all week for more coverage from camp, insights from key players, and daily practice recaps as the Chiefs prepare for another Super Bowl run. Chiefs Kingdom, the road to February starts now.