DENVER — In the final regular-season game on Sunday, the Kansas City Chiefs have decided to rest several key players, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce, and defensive tackle Chris Jones, as they face the Denver Broncos. With a remarkable 15-1 record, the Chiefs have already secured a bye in the playoffs as the top seed in the AFC. As a result, head coach Andy Reid has opted to give backup quarterback Carson Wentz the starting role in place of Mahomes, along with a number of other players who will not be participating against Denver (9-7). Notable inactives for Kansas City include running back Isiah Pacheco, cornerback Trent McDuffie, and tackle Jawaan Taylor.

On the other side, the Broncos find themselves in a must-win situation. To clinch a playoff spot for the first time since they lifted the Super Bowl trophy in 2015, they must secure a victory. Denver’s current inactives include running back Blake Watson, linebacker Levelle Bailey, tackle Frank Crum, and defensive linemen Matt Henningsen and Eyioma Uwazurike. Additionally, Zach Wilson will serve as the emergency third-string quarterback for the game.

The Broncos have faced disappointment in their last two games, where they could have locked in a playoff spot with either a win or a tie. If they manage to triumph this Sunday, a challenging matchup with the Buffalo Bills will follow, providing a potential path to their postseason hopes.