The Chiefs controlled the game from the opening quarter at Arrowhead Stadium, building a lead behind Mahomes and a powerful rushing attack. Kansas City finished with 392 total yards compared with 177 for Denver, while the Chiefs controlled the ball for nearly 34 minutes.

Mahomes made his return to regular-season action after missing the end of the 2025 season with torn ACL and LCL ligaments in his left knee. He completed 15 of 27 passes for 184 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding a rushing touchdown. He also threw one interception.

Kansas City’s ground game provided a major spark, led by running back Kenneth Walker. Walker rushed for 173 yards on 23 carries, including a 60-yard touchdown run that helped extend the Chiefs’ lead in the third quarter. He also caught a two-yard touchdown pass from Mahomes in the fourth quarter.

Kelce also made his mark on the opening night of the season. The veteran tight end recorded three receptions for 71 yards, including a 59-yard catch-and-run that helped set up a Kansas City scoring opportunity. The performance moved Kelce past former Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten on the NFL’s all-time receiving yardage list, adding another milestone to his career.

Denver quarterback Bo Nix, returning from the ankle injury that ended his 2025 season, completed 17 of 28 passes for 131 yards and one touchdown. He also threw an interception as the Broncos struggled to consistently move the ball against Kansas City’s defense.

The victory gives the Chiefs an early win over the Broncos after Denver swept the season series between the AFC West rivals in 2025. Kansas City finished last season 6-11 and missed the playoffs, while Denver went 14-3 and won the AFC West.

With Mahomes back and Kelce continuing to add to his place in NFL history, Kansas City began its push to reclaim the division with a convincing opening-night performance.