In order to avoid falling to .500 a month into the season, the Chargers will have the mighty task of trying to bring down the Chiefs. It’s the second division matchup of the year for Jim Harbaugh’s side.
If they want to bounce back after their loss to the Steelers last weekend, they will need to return to dominating in the trenches.
Here are five Chiefs players to keep an eye on for this upcoming weekend:
WR Xavier Worthy
It’ll be the first time that the Chargers get a look at the rookie wideout. Worthy is someone that Chargers DC Jesse Minter will have to keep an eye on at all times. Back in April, he ran a 4.21 40-yard dash at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine. Through three career games, he’s got 11 total touches for 120 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown.
TE Travis Kelce
This is an obvious one, but it’s perhaps for different reasons this time around. Over the years, he’s established himself as the best tight end year in and year out. This year though, he’s looked a step slower through three weeks. The veteran has caught eight of the 12 targets thrown his way for a total of just 69 yards. It’ll be interesting to see if his struggles continue or if we truly have already seen the best of Kelce.
OG Trey Smith
Smith continues to be one of the best value picks at the NFL Draft in recent years. The Chiefs took him in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, and he’s evolved into one of the best guards in football. That’s been no different this season, as he’s been dominant in the first three weeks. The interior part of the Chiefs offensive line may give the Chargers fits, which could be a major difference in the game.
LB Nick Bolton
Bolton has become a vital part of Steve Spagnuolo’s evolving defense in Kansas City. Through three weeks, he’s played 92% of the Chiefs’ defensive snaps. In a game in which the Chargers will try to get their running game back on track, Bolton will be a huge player to watch in this one.
CB Trent McDuffie
With L’Jarius Sneed gone, McDuffie has been asked to do more this season. So far, he’s passed with flying colors. Through three games, he has allowed just five receptions. The Chargers don’t exactly have a clear No. 1 wide receiver, so McDuffie will guard several different guys on Sunday.