In a surprising turn of events, the Kansas City Chiefs are shaking things up as they prepare to face their AFC West rivals, the Los Angeles Chargers, in the 2025 regular season opener in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on September 6, 2025. With the Chiefs aiming to assert their dominance in the AFC and AFC West, all eyes are on their strategy, particularly in the special teams unit, where a rookie might steal the spotlight from a seasoned veteran.
The Chiefs are coming off a successful campaign, but they’ll be without third-year wide receiver Rashee Rice for this game due to a six-game suspension. Despite this setback, Kansas City’s roster remains stacked with talent across offense, defense, and special teams. The key to victory, as always, lies in dominating all three phases of the game. Special teams, in particular, could play a pivotal role, especially with the Chargers boasting a dynamic returner in Derius Davis. However, the Chiefs have their own weapon in Nikko Remigio, a return specialist capable of flipping field position in an instant.
A New Contender Emerges: Brashard Smith
According to Charles Goldman of AtoZ Sports, Chiefs special teams coordinator Dave Toub revealed on Monday that rookie running back Brashard Smith, alongside veteran wide receiver Tyquan Thornton, could see action as a return specialist in the upcoming game. This development is unexpected, especially since Toub previously expressed dissatisfaction with Smith’s performance during the preseason opener, where the rookie failed to capitalize on a return opportunity.
Despite this, Toub’s consideration of Smith signals a potential shift in the Chiefs’ special teams strategy. While Nikko Remigio has been a reliable force, averaging 26.8 yards per kick return and 9.5 yards per punt return during the 2024 regular season, and an impressive 30.1 yards per kick return in the postseason, the Chiefs are exploring ways to integrate their younger talent. Remigio, a 5-foot-9 wide receiver, has proven his worth, notably with an electrifying return to open the AFC Divisional Round against the Houston Texans last season. Toub praised Remigio’s leadership and work ethic, stating, “He’s been our guy… He’s become a leader for us as far as his work ethic and everything he’s about. He’s a great teammate and a good guy. I’m happy he’s on the team” (h/t Charles Goldman).
Why Brashard Smith?
So, why consider a rookie like Brashard Smith for such a critical role? The answer lies in his raw speed and untapped potential. Smith, who ran a blazing 4.39 40-yard dash at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, brings an explosive element to the Chiefs’ special teams. His collegiate career at the University of Miami and SMU showcased his ability as a returner, averaging 24.4 yards per kick return over four years. In the 2025 preseason, he upped the ante, averaging 26.7 yards per kick return and even getting a few punt return opportunities.
While Smith and Thornton are unlikely to see significant offensive snaps early in the season, their speed makes them ideal candidates for special teams roles. The Chiefs are keen on utilizing their athleticism in open space, where players like Smith can turn a single play into a game-changer. Toub’s decision to give Smith a shot reflects the team’s philosophy of maximizing every player’s contribution, even if it means challenging the status quo.
The Bigger Picture
This move could be a strategic masterstroke by head coach Andy Reid and his staff. With the Chiefs facing a talented Chargers squad, field position will be critical. A strong special teams performance could tilt the game in Kansas City’s favor, especially against a returner like Derius Davis, who poses a constant threat. By potentially replacing or supplementing a veteran like Remigio with a rookie like Smith, the Chiefs are signaling their willingness to take risks to maintain their edge.
As the Chiefs prepare for their international showdown, the spotlight will be on Brashard Smith. Can the rookie seize this opportunity and prove he belongs on the big stage? Or will Nikko Remigio’s experience and leadership keep him as the go-to return specialist? One thing is certain: Andy Reid’s decision to open the door for Smith has added an intriguing layer of drama to an already high-stakes season opener.
Fans will have to wait until Friday night to see if this shocking shift pays off. For now, all eyes are on Sao Paulo, where the Chiefs aim to kick off their 2025 campaign with a statement win.