Chiefs Host Broncos in NFL Week 1 Opener with QBs Returning

The Kansas City Chiefs host the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football to close out the first week of the 2026 NFL season, with both starting quarterbacks returning from significant injuries. Patrick Mahomes will make his first start for the Chiefs since tearing his ACL and LCL in Week 15 of the 2025 season. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is also back after breaking his right ankle during a playoff victory over Buffalo. The game at Arrowhead Stadium marks a key early-season divisional matchup. The Broncos ended the Chiefs' nine-year reign atop the AFC West last season, sweeping the season series. Denver enters Monday on a three-game winning streak in the rivalry. Kansas City's offense features new additions, including running back Kenneth Walker III, acquired from the Seattle Seahawks. The Chiefs are expected to lean on Walker to manage Mahomes's workload as he returns from his knee injury. Head coach Andy Reid and Mahomes have confirmed he will start. Denver's offense has a new weapon in wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, joining Courtland Sutton.