The Kansas City Chiefs will rest Travis Kelce for their January 5, 2025, game against the Denver Broncos. Having already clinched the AFC’s top seed, the Chiefs have strategically opted to bench key players like Kelce to ensure they are healthy and ready for the postseason.

This decision, while cautious, highlights the unfortunate reality for fans hoping to see Kelce in action. Such strategies are common for playoff-bound teams, as they prioritize player health over a game with no impact on standings. Kelce, a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offense, will sit out, giving younger and backup players a chance to gain valuable experience while he preserves his fitness for the playoff run.

Where to Watch Kansas City Chiefs vs Denver Broncos Match?

You can enjoy the thrilling Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos matchup on Sunday, January 5, 2025. CBS will broadcast the game live at 4:25 p.m. ET, and viewers can tune in through traditional cable or several streaming platforms. Digital streaming options include YouTube TV, Sling TV, Fubo, NFL+, and Paramount+, providing a variety of ways to watch the action.

Kansas City Chiefs vs Denver Broncos Injury Report

Kansas City Chiefs Injury Report

Patrick Mahomes (Quarterback): Doubtful with an ankle injury

Travis Kelce (Tight End): Doubtful (NIR – Coaching)

Isiah Pacheco (Running Back): Out with rib injury

Mecole Hardman (Wide Receiver): Out with knee injury

Kareem Hunt (Running Back): Doubtful (NIR – Coaching)

Trent McDuffie (CB): Limited participation with knee injury

Jawaan Taylor (OT): Did not participate with knee injury

Denver Broncos Injuries

Frank Crum (OT): Ruled Out with illness

Ben Powers (OG): Did Not Participate in Practice (Rest)

Zach Allen (DL): Limited Participation in Practice (Rest)

Tyler Badie (RB): Questionable with back injury

Justin Strnad (LB): Full practice with heel injury

Nik Bonitto (OLB): Full practice with wrist injury

Kansas City Chiefs vs Denver Broncos Players Stats

Kansas City Chiefs Player Stats

Travis Kelce: REC 97, YDS 823, TD 3, AVG 8.5

Patrick Mahomes: YDS 3,928, TD 26, INT 11, QBR 68.6

Kareem Hunt: CAR 200, YDS 728, TD 7, AVG 3.6

Nick Bolton: SOLO 73, SACK 3, FF 1, INT 1

Jaden Hicks: SOLO 18, FF 0, INT 3, PD 4

Denver Broncos Player Stats

Bo Nix: YDS 3,454, TD 25, INT 12, QBR 54.2

Javonte Williams: CAR 134, YDS 485, TD 4, AVG 3.6

Courtland Sutton: REC 76, YDS 983, TD 7, AVG 12.9

Brandon Jones: SOLO 79, FF 1, INT 3, PD 10

Pat Surtain II: SOLO 31, FF 1, INT 4, PD 11

The Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos are set for a crucial NFL matchup with major playoff implications. The Broncos are determined to secure their first playoff appearance since 2015 and must win to keep their postseason hopes alive. Meanwhile, the Chiefs plan to rest key starters, including star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, adding an unusual twist to this late-season game.

Denver, heavily favored by betting lines with a predicted win margin of over 10 points, is laser-focused on victory. Their quarterback and coaching staff are fully aware of the high stakes and are expected to approach the game with maximum effort. On the other hand, the Chiefs will prioritize evaluating backup players and conserving their main roster for the playoffs.

The game’s outcome hinges on Denver’s ability to execute their strategy effectively against Kansas City’s reserve squad. Although the Chiefs’ backups, led by quarterback Carson Wentz, may bring competitive energy, they lack the firepower of the starting lineup. Denver’s talent and motivation are likely to outweigh any surprises from Kansas City’s reserves.

Considering current form, team priorities, and the stakes, a Broncos victory seems the most plausible result. A projected scoreline of 23-20 would end Denver’s playoff drought and solidify their place in the postseason.