There are few things guaranteed every NFL season.
Fans will argue about a controversial call from the referees, one rookie will dazzle more than the others, a team will go worst-to-first and theKansas City Chiefswill be in the playoffs.
All true – except this year, maybe.
Andy Reid's team has been a fixture in the bracket every year after the regular season concludes, but the 2025 campaign has proven to be a difficult one for Kansas City. For the first time inPatrick Mahomes'NFL career, there is a chance that he'll be watching the postseason from home like the rest of us.
Here's a look at the last time the Chiefs missed the playoffs.
Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Best images of the 2025 NFL season
Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18)makes a catch for a touchdownagainst the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.
When was the last time the Chiefs missed the playoffs?
The Chiefs last missed the playoffs in the 2014 season after finishing with a 9-7 record.
It was a year that birthed the "Ice Bucket Challenge," Ellen DeGeneres took her famous selfie at the Oscars, Facebook still dominated the social media landscape, Odell Beckham Jr. made a highlight-reel catch and Tom Brady won another Super Bowl for the New England Patriots.
The Chiefs enjoyed Jamaal Charles' last 1,000-yard rushing season in 2014, which also happened to beTravis Kelce'ssecond-year and first as a starter.
In other words, plenty has changed since the Chiefs were last kept out of the NFL playoff bracket.
While Reid still patrolled the sidelines, it was still three seasons before Mahomes would take over as the full-time starter.
Alex Smith held the job at the time for the Chiefs, consistently leading Kansas City to a wild card or division-round exit. For reference, the Chiefs' season hasn't ended before the AFC Championship Game since Mahomes arrived.
Fast forward to the present day and the Chiefs find themselves in a similar spot. They are on the outside looking in with just five games left.
The clock is ticking on the 2025 Chiefs. If they aren't careful, they'll be partying like it's 2014 all over again.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Last time the Chiefs missed the playoffs: What to know
