NFL Bengals-Chiefs AFC Rivalry Breaks 2025 Regular-Season Pattern

The Kansas City Chiefs and Arizona Cardinals have struggled with their running back situations early in the 2025 NFL season, with the Cardinals facing significant injuries and the Chiefs seeing underwhelming performances from their backs. Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints has emerged as a potential trade candidate who could benefit either team, especially the Cardinals, given their current roster challenges. The Saints, facing salary cap issues and projecting to be over the cap through 2026, may trade Kamara to improve their financial standing despite his status as a loyal franchise player. Meanwhile, the Bengals and Chiefs will not face each other in the 2025 regular season, marking the first break in their recent intense AFC rivalry since 2020, largely due to injuries and scheduling. Patrick Mahomes continues to demonstrate elite performance for the Chiefs, while the Bengals are navigating a quarterback transition after Joe Burrow's injury. Despite the pause, the rivalry remains highly competitive and is expected to reignite in the playoffs.