Chiefs stock watch: Which players impressed during Week 5 vs. Vikings

The Kansas City Chiefs extended their winning streak and unbeaten record on the road in Week 5 after defeating the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

The Chiefs offense struggled for most of the first half and faced a possibility of playing without Travis Kelce due to a bad-looking ankle injury. The all-pro tight end rebounded during halftime to become a significant contributor in the second half. Wide receivers Rashee Rice, Justin Watson, and Justyn Ross were dynamic options in the passing game.

Buy Chiefs Tickets

On defense, the unit pressured Kirk Cousins and the Vikings offense into tough throws and turnovers. Sacks from Leo Chenal, Mike Danna, and Chris Jones were impactful, along with great play in the secondary. A critical moment late in the game involving L’Jarius Sneed as he avoided a potential pass interference penalty.

The Chiefs hung on in a close tilt with a Minnesota squad seeking a spark to get their season back on track.

Here’s a look at how the stock is trending for some players after the Week 5 victory at U.S. Bank Stadium:

Stock Up: Travis Kelce

Sep 17, 2023; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) warms up before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

The ankle injury in the first half brought on plenty of worry for fans, but the all-pro tight end didn’t let it keep him out. Kelce finished the victory with ten catches for 67 yards and a touchdown to lead the team.

Stock Up: Patrick Mahomes

GLENDALE, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 12: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks to pass against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half in Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium on February 12, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Mahomes understood the assignment regarding his play standards and made sure to make a more significant impact in Minnesota. The reigning MVP was efficient and didn’t turn the ball over while connecting with multiple receivers 281 yards and a touchdown.

Stock Up: Rashee Rice

Aug 26, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (4) is unable to make a catch against Cleveland Browns safety Juan Thornhill (1) during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

The constant conversation surrounding Rice to start the season was about his skills but occasionally dropping passes. He was secure with the football on Sunday, hauling four catches for 33 yards and a touchdown.

Stock Up: Justin Reid

Feb 12, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, US; Kansas City Chiefs safety Justin Reid (20) warms up before Super Bowl LVII against the Philadelphia Eagles at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Reid set the tempo immediately in Sunday’s victory with a forced fumble on the first play of the game, gaining a takeaway for the defense. He finished the game with seven tackles and provided pressure late on blitz packages.

Stock Down: Joshua Williams

Feb 12, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, US; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (23) before action against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

It was a tough outing for Williams, who seemed to have a noticeable issue keeping his footing on the field. He was beaten on a few plays in coverage and didn’t seem effective in his matchup assignments.