The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a significant setback as safety Deon Bush is expected to miss the entire 2025 season due to an Achilles tendon injury sustained in a preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Why it matters: Bush's absence will impact the Chiefs' defensive depth and strategy heading into the upcoming season.

• As a nine-year veteran, he has been a crucial part of the secondary, contributing to the team's back-to-back Super Bowl victories.
• His experience and skill set were expected to bolster a defense that aims to maintain its competitive edge in the increasingly high-octane NFL landscape.

What’s new: Bush suffered a noncontact torn Achilles while attempting to change direction during the preseason-opening loss to the Cardinals, which ended 20-17.

• The injury occurred at a pivotal moment for both Bush and the team, as he had been performing well throughout training camp.
• Coach Andy Reid confirmed that Bush would require surgery, emphasizing the unfortunate timing given Bush's strong performance leading up to the injury.

By the numbers: In his time with the Chiefs, Bush recorded critical plays, including a notable interception during the 2023 AFC Championship Game against the Baltimore Ravens.

• Over his career, he has accumulated 176 tackles and four interceptions, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly in key moments.

Yes, but: While Bush's injury is a devastating blow, the Chiefs have depth in their roster that may help mitigate the impact of his absence.

• Players such as Justin Reid and Juan Thornhill provide experience and capability in the safety position, allowing the team to adapt its defensive scheme as needed.

What to watch: Moving forward, attention will turn to how the Chiefs adjust their defensive strategies without Bush.

• Expect increased roles for younger players or those who may not have seen substantial playing time previously, as the coaching staff seeks to fill the gap left by Bush's absence.

The bottom line: Losing Deon Bush for the season presents a challenge for the Chiefs, but with effective adjustments and strong leadership, they can navigate this hurdle as they prepare for another competitive season.

The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a significant setback as safety Deon Bush is expected to miss the entire 2025 season due to an Achilles tendon injury sustained in a preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Why it matters: Bush's absence will impact the Chiefs' defensive depth and strategy heading into the upcoming season.

• As a nine-year veteran, he has been a crucial part of the secondary, contributing to the team's back-to-back Super Bowl victories.
• His experience and skill set were expected to bolster a defense that aims to maintain its competitive edge in the increasingly high-octane NFL landscape.

What’s new: Bush suffered a noncontact torn Achilles while attempting to change direction during the preseason-opening loss to the Cardinals, which ended 20-17.

• The injury occurred at a pivotal moment for both Bush and the team, as he had been performing well throughout training camp.
• Coach Andy Reid confirmed that Bush would require surgery, emphasizing the unfortunate timing given Bush's strong performance leading up to the injury.

By the numbers: In his time with the Chiefs, Bush recorded critical plays, including a notable interception during the 2023 AFC Championship Game against the Baltimore Ravens.

• Over his career, he has accumulated 176 tackles and four interceptions, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly in key moments.

Yes, but: While Bush's injury is a devastating blow, the Chiefs have depth in their roster that may help mitigate the impact of his absence.

• Players such as Justin Reid and Juan Thornhill provide experience and capability in the safety position, allowing the team to adapt its defensive scheme as needed.

What to watch: Moving forward, attention will turn to how the Chiefs adjust their defensive strategies without Bush.

• Expect increased roles for younger players or those who may not have seen substantial playing time previously, as the coaching staff seeks to fill the gap left by Bush's absence.

The bottom line: Losing Deon Bush for the season presents a challenge for the Chiefs, but with effective adjustments and strong leadership, they can navigate this hurdle as they prepare for another competitive season.