Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs Continue Climb in NFL Power Rankings After 3-0 Start

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs have continued their rise in NFL power rankings after opening the 2026 season with three straight victories. Their latest win over the Miami Dolphins further strengthened the perception that Kansas City has returned to the upper tier of the league.

The Chiefs defeated Miami 24-10 on the road, completing another steady performance without needing to produce an overwhelming offensive showing. Kansas City controlled the game effectively, while its defense prevented the Dolphins from generating enough momentum to make the contest particularly close.

Mahomes has been central to the team's strong beginning, looking increasingly comfortable as the offense finds its rhythm. Through three games, he has thrown for 812 yards and seven touchdowns with two interceptions, while also contributing a rushing touchdown.

The emergence of Kenneth Walker III has added another important element to the offense. His production on the ground has given Kansas City a more balanced attack, allowing the Chiefs to create opportunities without placing the entire burden on Mahomes and the passing game.

Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City Chiefs Rise to Third Place in Latest NFL Power Rankings

Mahomes and company have taken the third spot in the latest power rankings. This is detailed more in an analysis by Nate Taylor for ESPN.

Week 3 result: Beat the Dolphins 24-10 Week 3 ranking: 4 Fantasy surprise: RB Kenneth Walker III Most fantasy owners knew Walker was a good choice, especially after his impressive postseason run to help the Seahawks win the Super Bowl. But not even the Chiefs could have expected this level of production from Walker, who has the second-most total fantasy points at RB this season. He has already produced 442 scrimmage yards and four total touchdowns. Walker is the first player in franchise history to have two games with a rushing and receiving touchdown within the first three weeks, per ESPN Research.

Week 3 result: Beat the Dolphins 24-10 Week 3 ranking: 4

Most fantasy owners knew Walker was a good choice, especially after his impressive postseason run to help the Seahawks win the Super Bowl. But not even the Chiefs could have expected this level of production from Walker, who has the second-most total fantasy points at RB this season. He has already produced 442 scrimmage yards and four total touchdowns. Walker is the first player in franchise history to have two games with a rushing and receiving touchdown within the first three weeks, per ESPN Research.

That balance has helped Kansas City climb across several major power rankings entering Week 4. The Chiefs were ranked No. 2 by NFL.com, USA Today, Sports Illustrated and NBC Sports, while ESPN, Bleacher Report and CBS Sports placed them at No. 3, reflecting broad agreement that the team belongs near the top of the league.

The Chiefs now face one of their most intriguing tests of the young season when they visit the unbeaten Las Vegas Raiders . With both teams entering the matchup at 3-0, the AFC West showdown gives Kansas City another opportunity to demonstrate that its strong opening is more than a hot start and further strengthen its standing among the NFL's top teams.