The Kansas City Chiefs entered Week 16 with a different mindset, starting the final three games of the regular season with backup quarterback Gardner Minshew as the starter. The Tennessee Titans continue to gain experience for the top overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Cam Ward, as he winds down his rookie season.
The game was changed immediately with Minshew’s knee injury on the Chiefs’ opening drive. The offense was slowed by that and had to adjust to third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun making his first regular-season passing attempts. Hollywood Brown, Isiah Pacheco, and Xavier Worthy were active as receivers for Oladokun.
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Nick Bolton was aggressive early and often for the defense, still fighting effectively until the end. Chamarri Connor also chimed in with a sack while Drue Tranquill forced a fumble. The Titans made key plays and capitalized on penalties and field position—another loss to add to the player evaluation pile for the coaching staff.
Check out how some of Kansas City’s stars fared in the Chiefs’ loss to Tennessee.
Stock Up: Chris Oladokun
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Chris Oladokun (19) passes during the second quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025.
The first passing attempts for the long-time scout team quarterback, as he handled himself well in relief of an injured Minshew. He finished with 11 completions on 16 attempts for 111 yards.
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Stock Up: Nick Bolton
Dec 21, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton (32) and cornerback Jaylen Watson (35) tackle Tennessee Titans wide receiver Van Jefferson (11) during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
The veteran linebacker secured a sack and was again in on most plays, collecting tackles against a young Titans offense.
Stock Down: Esa Pole
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Esa Pole (79) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Multiple penalties again for the undrafted rookie as he continues to grow at the left tackle position.
Stock Down: Kareem Hunt
Dec 21, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt (29) runs against Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons (98) during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Hunt’s inclusion on the list is due to his lack of production and to being tackled in the end zone for a safety. Problems at quarterback and on the offensive line have also contributed to issues. He finished with three carries for two yards.
This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Which players impressed during Week 16 vs. Titans