The captain of the Kansas City Chiefs outlines what the team’s winning formula is in their current NFL dynasty.

The captain of the Kansas City Chiefs outlines what the team’s winning formula is in their current NFL dynasty.

The Kansas City Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Chris Jones, and others, are entering this season with a unique chance to attempt a three-peat—a feat that has only been attempted by eight NFL teams, none of which have succeeded. Coming off back-to-back Super Bowl victories. This possible feat would add to Mahomes’ already incredible six-season tenure as the starting quarterback. During the Chiefs’ 2017 season, which ended with the Tennessee Titans winning the division, Mahomes started his rookie year behind Alex Smith. But it also signaled the start of a brand-new NFL dynasty, and as they head into this season as the defending champions, it seems stronger than ever.

The most noticeable component of this dynasty has been the Mahomes-led offense under head coach Andy Reid, but the defense, led by Chris Jones and defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, was also instrumental in keeping the team afloat during Mahomes’ statistically worst season last year. Jones was selected 37th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft and has been a regular playoff participant ever since joining the Chiefs. He has developed into the defensive lineman and captain of the team. Alongside former Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith, Jones discussed his tenure with the organization in an interview with SiriusXM NFL Radio, stating, “I’ve been through nothing but the playoffs… life has been pretty good.” This training camp has been the best of his career, he also told coach Reid.

Due to contract problems, Jones was unable to participate in the previous two training camps. However, on March 9, a little less than two months after the Chiefs won the Super Bowl, he signed a five-year, $158.75 million contract that included a $30 million signing bonus and $95 million guaranteed. Only three players—Jones, Kelce, and Mahomes—have participated in and won all four of the Chiefs’ recent Super Bowl appearances and Vince Lombardi trophies. Jones is the lone defensive starter from the team’s prior Super Bowl runs. His presence and influence are vital to the Chiefs’ ongoing success.

With Travis Kelce continuing to dominate and Rashee Rice emerging as a player who broke the record for most postseason receptions by a rookie (26), the Chiefs offense appears ready for another strong season. Despite missing the first three weeks, Marquise “Hollywood” Brown’s acquisition, along with youngster Xavier Worthy’s deep threat potential and JuJu Smith-Schuster’s return, might help Mahomes eclipse 5,000 passing yards and 35 touchdown passes this season. Mahomes recorded 4,183 passing yards and 27 touchdowns in the previous season, despite it being one of his less successful campaigns. Their biggest problem may be avoiding injuries if the defense plays as well as it did the previous season and the club wins home-field advantage in the postseason.