The Week 18 matchup between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs will be one of the most uneventful games in the rivalry’s history. Both the Raiders and Chiefs were eliminated from the playoffs weeks ago, and only the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL draft
is on the line. But even that could be decided before kickoff. Regardless, there’s plenty of bitter hatred between the two clubs to add motivation for both sides.To preview the contest for Raider Nation, Silver and Black Pride reached out
to our frenemies at Arrowhead Pride, and Maurice Elston was kind enough to answer a few questions about the Chiefs.
Q: The Chiefs are in an unusual position for this time of year, eliminated from the playoffs, not having Patrick Mahomes under center, and losing seven of their last eight games. Is there a sense that this team has packed it in for the season, or are they still trying to squeeze as many wins as possible?
A: There’s no indication the team has packed it in. Andy Reid has consistently emphasized that they’re playing to win, and the effort shown against Denver last week reflected that message. The result didn’t go their way, but the competitiveness was there. The real question is whether they can sustain that same intensity again this week.
Q: Building on that, who is Chris Oladokun? What can you tell us about his game/what you’ve seen from him in the last two weeks?
A: Oladokun is a competitor. He showed noticeable improvement last week with a full week of practice as the starter. He’s an athletic quarterback who can extend plays and create outside structure. Like many inexperienced quarterbacks, he tends to hold the ball a bit too long at times, but the growth has been evident. While Andy Reid typically prefers veteran backups, Oladokun has an opportunity to make a case for the QB2 role moving forward.
Q: I know he hasn’t announced his intentions yet, but do you think this is Travis Kelce’s last game? If Kelce retires, who is expected to replace him, and where would you rank him among the Chiefs’ greats?
A: My expectation is that Kelce plays at least one more season, though it wouldn’t be surprising if he chose to walk away. There’s no true replacement for a player of his caliber. On the current roster, Noah Gray and Jared Wiley would see expanded roles, but the Chiefs would likely be active in free agency if Kelce retires.
Among Chiefs greats, Kelce ranks fourth all-time, behind Patrick Mahomes, Len Dawson, and Derrick Thomas.
Q: Do you get the sense that this is just a down year in Kansas City, or is the dynasty coming to an end? Either way, how do they get back to prominence?
A: This feels like a down year rather than the end of a dynasty. Kansas City was a handful of plays away from several additional wins. With a strong offseason, the path back is clear. Defensively, adding a pass rusher and safety help would stabilize the unit. Offensively, a wide receiver who can consistently win against man coverage and a running back capable of creating explosive plays would make a significant difference.
Coaching adjustments and a renewed emphasis on discipline should follow. If those changes come together, the Chiefs should be right back in the playoff picture next season.
Q: Wrapping up with the offseason theme, who are the Chiefs’ biggest impending free agents, and what needs do you anticipate them having?
A: Safety Bryan Cook and cornerback Jaylen Watson are two key names to monitor. If the Chiefs extend Trent McDuffie, Watson could be allowed to walk, especially with the emergence of rookie Nohl Williams. Cook has developed steadily this season, making his situation more complex.
Pass rusher remains the biggest roster need and should be addressed early in the draft. Brett Veach typically prefers to fill holes in free agency so the team can draft the best player available, and this offseason should follow a similar approach.
