Former Chiefs QB Alex Smith shoots down offensive coordinator rumors and shares his opinion on who they will hire
The Chiefs may just hire Mike Kafka.
The Kansas City Chiefs need changes before the 2026 season. They have already moved on from some players, but now must decide whether to hire a new staff member. Fans want someone new, not Eric Bieniemy or anyone closely tied to Andy Reid.
Fans prefer someone outside of Reid’s coaching circle, but will the team consider an outsider?
Former Chiefs QB Alex Smith guesses who KC may hire at offensive coordinator
“I hope he (Matt Nagy) gets another (head coach) job… I’ve been hearing no,” Smith said regarding whether Nagy will still be with the Chiefs. “Oh, I wouldn’t be shocked if they bring Kafka back. Amdy just rarely brings somebody outside his circle. I don’t think it’s a bad thing if he brought someone else in. In some ways, Kafka fits this so perfectly.
“He knows this Chiefs system so well, and I think he could bring in some outside ideas. I know some people are frustrated with the offense, but listen, Andy is doing the offense. We all know this. When you’re the offensive coordinator there, you only have so much input.”
Kafka recently spent a few years with the New York Giants on Brian Daboll’s staff. Now, he needs a new job. It’s safe to say he could be a favorite to land the job, as his last time with the team, when he was Patrick Mahomes’ quarterback coach, the offense was great, and Mahomes was playing his best ball. Kafka may not be a terrible option, but you have to understand why fans want someone else from outside the tree. They’ve been through this before, when Bieniemy left for the Washington Commanders.
Since Nagy became offensive coordinator in 2023, the Chiefs’ offense has declined, averaging fewer points each season compared to previous years. Nagy is linked to the struggles despite changing personnel. It’s unlikely the Chiefs pursue a young offensive mind not aligned with Reid’s scheme, as the offense ultimately remains under Reid’s control.
Ultimately, the pressure is on this hire to help turn the offense around, regardless of their background. The right hire could define the team’s direction for years to come, making this a critical decision that cannot be taken lightly.
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