3 Chiefs who could be headed for their first-ever Pro Bowl

The Kansas City Chiefs' early bye is certainly throwing off fans' early-season rhythm, but it also means some well-earned rest for players. The 5-0 Chiefs have faced one of the league's toughest opening schedules and managed to emerge unscathed, despite several closely contested games that they made more challenging for themselves. The key, however, is their ability to secure victories regardless of how they achieve them.

The Chiefs winning in a non-decisive fashion does limit their Pro Bowl prospects. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes is talented, but not quite as statistically dominant as expected. Tight end Travis Kelce's season is constantly under scrutiny. They are already relying on used goods and reserves for other skill positions. The former Pro Bowlers that Kansas City could once depend on year after year are not having seasons that warrant consideration at this point.

If Pro Bowl voting started today, there are a handful of players who deserve votes. Defensive tackle Chris Jones hasn't missed a beat. Center Creed Humphrey remains elite. But who else could the Chiefs expect to be Pro Bowl-contending players?

Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowl hopeful no. 1: LB Nick Bolton

Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo may lead the Chiefs' defense from the sideline, but linebacker Nick Bolton undoubtedly leads the group on the field. The former Missouri Tiger has continually improved during his time in Kansas City, hitting a new peak in his contract year.

Bolton played in only eight games last year due to injury, but he has appeared very healthy so far this season. Whether it was his crucial game-sealing tackle against the Atlanta Falcons or his season-high 11 combined tackles against the Saints, Bolton continues to solidify his role as a field general.

His upcoming tenure in Kansas City is poised to become a significant offseason narrative, as he is currently elevating his potential contract value. Leading the Chiefs defense with six tackles for loss, he is also tied for the third-highest in the NFL. While he may not be accumulating as many combined tackles as he did in 2021 or 2022, Bolton is now a much more well-rounded player.

Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowl hopeful no. 2: K Harrison Butker

Thanks to Baltimore Ravens' great Justin Tucker's recent struggles in his kicking game, there is an opening for the AFC's Pro Bowl kicking representative. Kicker Harrison Butker isn't flawless himself, but he should make a strong Pro Bowl case when the voting period arrives.

Butker had a standout game against the Saints, successfully making 4 out of 5 field goal attempts, with his only miss coming from 51 yards. He also nailed all his extra-point attempts, playing a crucial role in powering the streaky Kansas City scoring attack. Broadcaster Mitch Holthus eloquently stated his value in the Chiefs Monday Night Football victory.

After five weeks of NFL action, Butker has scored 46 points, ranking fourth in the league. He’s also the only AFC kicker in the top three for both field goals made (12) and attempted (14). Add on the name notoriety aspect, add in a dash of Chiefs' favor, and Butker's talent should ultimately land him in the Pro Bowl.

Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowl hopeful no. 3: CB Trent McDuffie

To be clear, cornerback Trent McDuffie shouldn’t be on this list; he deserved a Pro Bowl nod already, thanks to his impressive 2023 season. He earned All-Pro honors, establishing himself as a key player alongside the now-departed L'Jarius Sneed. There were many preseason questions about how McDuffie would perform without Sneed as his running mate, but he has silenced any doubts.

McDuffie recently shut down New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave, limiting him to just one target and one catch for a mere four yards. This impressive performance ended a three-game streak where Olave had at least 81 receiving yards and played a key role in securing Kansas City’s 26-13 victory.

While the cornerback may not have the interception numbers that grab headlines or the trash talk that keeps the Cincinnati Bengals in the spotlight, he serves as a vocal leader on this Chiefs defense. That defense is a big reason the defending champions are still undefeated, and that has to count for something. McDuffie is on track for career-best numbers in passer rating allowed and passes defended, all while still in pursuit of his first NFL interception.