KC Chiefs defense has turned it around on all levels

The rumors are true. According to multiple sources, the Kansas City Chiefs have gotten their swagger back.

After beating the Denver Broncos on Sunday night, the Chiefs have now rattled off five straight victories and are once again among the most feared teams in the AFC. The source of this turnaround can be traced back to what some previously thought of as an unlikely source: the defense. As the offense still works towards regaining its firepower on a consistent basis, the expectations for a deep playoff run and Super Bowl appearance should remain high.

Through the first seven weeks, the Chiefs sat at an underwhelming 3-4 record. The defense was porous against both the run and pass, and was on its way towards a historically bad season, allowing 29 points per game in that span. Despite the media and fans alike blasting the weak showings early on the players and coaches chose to trust their process and avoid hitting the panic button. The result? Five consecutive wins, regaining their rightful spot at the top of the AFC West, and preparing for a push towards the first seed in the conference.

Ever since Patrick Mahomes took the reins of the team, it’s no secret that K.C.’s defense has played second fiddle to its offensive brethren. It was always the offensive stars that earned the attention and admiration, and rightfully so. However, over the last six weeks, the Chiefs defense has made a name for itself. The start of the season may have been painful to watch, but over the course of the winning streak, the Chiefs defense has proven to be one of the best in the NFL.

Let’s take a look at how the Chiefs defensive position groups were able to will themselves out of the early season abyss over the last five games.