Week 15 Recap: Chiefs Eliminated, Mahomes Tears ACL, Bears & Rams Seize Control

Chiefs Kingdom in Shock: Playoff Streak Ends

In one of the most stunning developments of the 2025 NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs have been officially eliminated from playoff contention following a gritty 10-4 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. This marks the first time since the 2014 season that the Chiefs will not participate in the postseason, ending a decade-long era of dominance that defined the modern NFL.

The loss itself was a defensive slugfest, but the final score became a footnote to the devastating injury news that rocked the league.

Mahomes Sidelined with ACL Injury

The Chiefs' elimination was compounded by catastrophic news regarding superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes. In the third quarter of the loss to the Chargers, Mahomes suffered a non-contact knee injury while scrambling. Subsequent MRI tests confirmed a torn ACL, ending his season and casting a long shadow over the Chiefs' 2026 offseason preparations.

For fantasy managers, this is the final blow in a turbulent season for Kansas City's offense. With Mahomes out, the fantasy value of skill players like Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce (if he returns) takes a significant hit heading into dynasty offseasons.

NFC Power Shift: Bears and Rams Rise

While the AFC hierarchy crumbles, the NFC picture is solidifying around two powerhouses.

Chicago Bears (10-4): The Bears made a massive statement with a comprehensive 31-3 demolition of the Cleveland Browns. Caleb Williams continues to mature, but it was the defense that stole the show, suffocating the Browns' attack. With the Packers losing, Chicago now sits alone atop the NFC North, controlling their destiny for a potential high playoff seed.

Los Angeles Rams (11-3): In the game of the week, the Rams outlasted the Detroit Lions in a 41-34 shootout. Matthew Stafford threw for 368 yards and 2 touchdowns, further cementing his MVP candidacy. Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp combined for over 200 receiving yards, rewarding fantasy managers who trusted the Rams' aerial attack in the first week of the fantasy playoffs.

Bills Keep Hope Alive

In the AFC East, the Buffalo Bills staged a miraculous comeback against the New England Patriots. Trailing 21-0, Josh Allen willed his team back into the game, eventually securing a 10-4 victory (yes, another defensive scoreline, but with a different narrative). The win keeps the Bills (10-4) in the thick of the wild card race and potentially the division title hunt, proving that they remain a dangerous team despite their mid-season struggles.