Chiefs and Broncos Face Off with Key Starters Inactive for Christmas Clash

The Kansas City Chiefs will be without several key starters against the Denver Broncos. The inactive list was released 90 minutes before the Christmas night kickoff. The game is set for 7:15 p.m. CT at Arrowhead Stadium.

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) looks to throw a pass against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half of an NFL football game in Denver, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

According to team reports, linebacker Nick Bolton and defensive end George Karlaftis are active after being ill. However, defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi and offensive tackle Jaylon Moore are among the seven Chiefs ruled out. This significantly reshapes both lines ahead of the critical division matchup.

Offensive Line Shuffle Poses Challenge for Chiefs

Jaylon Moore’s continued absence forces another major test for the offensive line. Rookie Esa Pole is expected to make his third straight start at left tackle. He will be protecting backup quarterback Chris Oladokun’s blindside.

On the right side, the Chiefs will start Chu Godrick for the second week in a row. Godrick is a product of the NFL’s International Player Pathway program. His inexperience adds another layer of complexity to protecting the quarterback.

Moore signed a substantial $30 million contract in March. His knee injury has kept him out since mid-December. His loss is a significant blow to the unit’s stability and experience.

Defensive Adjustments and Broncos’ Own Absences

On defense, Derrick Nnadi remains out with an illness. Veteran Mike Pennel is expected to start in his place on the interior line. The Chiefs’ secondary also gets a boost with the return of cornerback Nazeeh Johnson from injured reserve.

The Broncos face their own critical shortages. Denver placed starting center Luke Wattenberg on injured reserve Thursday. They will also be without starting receiver Pat Bryant and linebacker Dre Greenlaw.

These absences on both sides will force strategic adjustments. Coaches must rely on depth players in a high-stakes AFC West contest. The outcome could heavily depend on which team’s backups perform better.

The final Chiefs inactive list underscores the team’s injury woes this season. Key lineup changes will define this Christmas showdown. The depth chart is being tested like never before.

Dropping this nugget your way

Who is starting at tackle for the Chiefs with Jaylon Moore out?

Rookie Esa Pole will start at left tackle. Chu Godrick, an international pathway player, will start at right tackle. Both have very limited NFL starting experience.

Which key Chiefs defenders are active for the game?

Linebacker Nick Bolton and defensive end George Karlaftis are active despite illness. However, starting defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi is inactive. Mike Pennel will start in his place.

What significant players are out for the Denver Broncos?

The Broncos are without center Luke Wattenberg, wide receiver Pat Bryant, and linebacker Dre Greenlaw. Wattenberg was placed on injured reserve just before the game.

How many Chiefs players are currently on injured reserve?

With the move of Nikko Remigio to IR, the Chiefs now have 20 players on injured reserve. This list includes several other key starters and contributors.