Cardinals Edge Chiefs 20–17 in Preseason Opener

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GLENDALE, Ariz. – Aug. 9, 2025 — The Arizona Cardinals overcame an early deficit to defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 20–17 in their preseason opener at State Farm Stadium.

Fast Start for Kansas City The night began with a bang for Kansas City as Patrick Mahomes needed less than a minute to put points on the board. On his lone series of the game, Mahomes found wide receiver Jason Brownlee for a 1-yard touchdown, capping a short drive set up by a special teams miscue from Arizona. That would be the last the reigning MVP was seen on the field, as head coach Andy Reid turned the game over to the backups for evaluation. Cardinals Battle Back After falling behind early, the Cardinals answered with a balanced offensive attack. Kyler Murraylooked sharp in limited action, completing 7-of-8 passes for 96 yards despite throwing one interception. Veteran backup Gardner Minshew energized the home crowd with a 2-yard rushing touchdown while going 6-for-9 through the air for 54 yards. Third-string quarterback Bailey Zappe added 70 passing yards but was hampered by two interceptions. Still, the Cardinals kept drives alive long enough to produce the points needed for the win. Injury Concerns The Chiefs suffered a significant setback when veteran safety Deon Bush tore his Achilles, ending his season before it began.

Cornerback Jaylen Watson also entered concussion protocol. For Arizona, offensive lineman Christian Jonesexited with a knee injury. Looking Ahead While preseason records mean little, the game offered each team a chance to evaluate depth. For Kansas City, Minshew and Zappe’s performances provided mixed reviews, and defensive depth will now be tested after Bush’s injury. Arizona will be encouraged by Murray’s efficient showing and the fight displayed by its second- and third-string units.