Fansided

Power rankings and record predictions

By Matt Verderame

Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) against the Baltimore Ravens at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) against the Baltimore Ravens at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 06: Marcus Peters
OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 06: Marcus Peters /

5. Kansas City Chiefs

Kansas City has not won or reached a Super Bowl since 1969, but there is reason to believe that could finally change in 2016. The Chiefs have amassed ample talent on both sides of the ball, with general manager John Dorsey landing a key piece in free agency with right tackle Mitch Schwartz.

The offense should be explosive with Jeremy Maclin, Jamaal Charles, and Travis Kelce. Alex Smith will never be an All-Pro, but he has won 30 games in three seasons with Kansas City. Factoring in second-year receiver Chris Conley and the development of center MItch Morse, this unit should be potent.

Kansas City is in the NFL’s toughest division, but it looks to be the most complete team. After breaking their 22-year playoff hex with a win last year over the Houston Texans, the Chiefs should have a deep postseason run. If they earn home-field advantage, any team would be hard-pressed to beat Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium.

The potential fly in the ointment is Justin Houston. Houston is still recovering from an ACL injury and is sidelined for at least the first six games of the season. Without him, 2014 first-round pick Dee Ford has to become a factor. If Houston can return quickly or Ford matures, the Chiefs are a true contender.

Record prediction: 12-4

Next: No. 4 Carolina Panthers