Chiefs Kingdom Ready to Roar: Week 1 Training Camp Delivers High-Energy Return to St. Joseph
The Kansas City Chiefs officially kicked off their 2025 training camp on Tuesday, July 22, at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Missouri, and the first week has already delivered plenty of excitement for the Kingdom. With the team coming off their Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, head coach Andy Reid’s message was crystal clear from day one: “urgency.”
Mahomes and the Aerial Attack Take Flight
Patrick Mahomes wasted no time showing he’s ready to bounce back from last season’s struggles with the deep ball. The three-time Super Bowl champion opened training camp in classic fashion, connecting with rookie speedster Xavier Worthy on a beautiful deep strike during the first practice. This early chemistry signals the Chiefs’ renewed commitment to stretching the field after ranking near the bottom of the league in downfield passing attempts last season.
Mahomes has been “excellent in the first week of training camp,” according to reports, and his approach reflects a quarterback determined to elevate his game. After admitting he needs to “be better at throwing the ball down the field,” the MVP has already shown improved timing and accuracy on vertical routes.
Offensive Line Getting Sorted
The most intriguing storyline from week one has been the offensive line configuration, particularly at the tackle positions. First-round pick Josh Simmons has impressed in his return from a torn patellar injury, working with the first-team offense at left tackle. Reid praised the Ohio State product, saying “he did some good things” and “worked in there with the ones and did a nice job.”
Meanwhile, there’s been rotation at right tackle between Jawaan Taylor and Jaylon Moore. Taylor returned to practice on Sunday after being on the PUP list, but Moore has been getting significant first-team reps, creating an interesting competition.
Receiving Corps Shows Depth and Chemistry
The receiving room has been one of the brightest spots of camp. Rashee Rice has emerged as Mahomes’ most-targeted receiver, looking sharp despite his off-field concerns. The connection between quarterback and receiver appears stronger than ever, with Rice running crisp routes and making contested catches throughout the week.
Hollywood Brown is feeling much more prepared entering his second season in Kansas City after dealing with injuries last year. Brown has made several impressive downfield catches and spoke about how the receiving corps “mesh together really well” and are “like brothers.”
Rookie Jalen Royals has been a pleasant surprise, earning elevated reps with the first-team offense and showing the versatility to line up at multiple positions. His emergence has been particularly noteworthy given the potential for Rashee Rice’s suspension.
Kelce’s Comeback Story
Travis Kelce has stolen headlines with his remarkable physical transformation and renewed energy. Reid couldn’t contain his excitement, describing the veteran tight end as “svelte right now” and joking that “he looks like he’s 20.” Kelce reportedly came in first in conditioning tests and has shown the burst and acceleration that made him dominant in his prime.
The 35-year-old even debuted a fresh new buzzcut at Sunday’s practice, drawing comparisons to his appearance during the Chiefs’ championship runs.
Rookie Class Making Early Impressions
Several rookies have caught attention beyond Simmons and Royals. Omarr Norman-Lott has been getting significant first-team reps alongside Chris Jones on the defensive line, with coaches impressed by his raw talent and quick development. The second-round pick suffered a minor ankle tweak on Sunday but returned to practice.
Brashard Smith has shown versatility as both a running back and special teams contributor, while Nohl Williams has improved significantly from his struggles during OTAs and minicamp.
First Pads Practice Sets the Tone
Sunday’s practice marked a major milestone as the team donned full pads for the first time since Super Bowl week. The session included Reid’s signature “long-drive drill,” which tests players’ mental and physical toughness through rapid-fire plays. Mahomes capped off the drill with a touchdown pass to Hollywood Brown, showcasing the improved offensive chemistry.
Reid emphasized the importance of this transition, noting: “You find out who’s willing to keep it going” when the pads come on.
Looking Ahead
As the Chiefs enter their second week of camp, several key storylines will continue to develop: the ongoing tackle competitions, Rashee Rice’s potential suspension timeline, and the continued development of the rookie class. With practices ramping up in intensity and the first preseason game against the Cardinals on August 9, the foundation being built in St. Joseph will be crucial for another championship run.
The energy and execution displayed in week one suggest the Chiefs are ready to channel their Super Bowl disappointment into fuel for another championship pursuit. As Mahomes said on opening day: “Every year resets… how can you attack this day to be better than you were the day before.”
Training camp continues through August 13, with practices open to the public. The team will break camp and return to Kansas City following the final practice on Military Appreciation Day.