SportsBeat KC

North America was awarded the 2026 FIFA World Cup eight years ago. Four years later, Kansas City was named one of the event’s 16 host cities.Now, it’s here. The world’s biggest sporting event begins Thursday with the first game in Kansas City on June 16. Are we ready?In this week’s episode of SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), sports columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell share their thoughts.Ticket sales, hotel prices, safety and security have been the big topics leading up to the event. How is Kansas City responding? Also, how will Team USA fare in the global tournament?And if Argentina, looking to win its second straight World Cup and fourth overall, is the Chiefs among base-camp teams training in the region, what KC sports entities do England, Netherlands and Algeria resemble?SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

The news is good and bad for the Chiefs: Patrick Mahomes is back on the practice field, taking part in some drills. That’s a great sign as the two-time MVP continues to heal from torn knee ligaments.The not-so-good news: Wide receiver Rashee Rice is still serving his 30-day jail sentence for violating terms of his probation stemming from his 2024 arrest for his role in a Dallas car crash.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), Chiefs beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnist Vahe Gregorian discuss these developments and more as the Chiefs’ offseason prep-work continues.Also, we’ll tell you what’s on our radar in Kansas City sports this week, including the World Cup and college baseball.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.  

Of the 11 U.S. cities to host FIFA World Cup games, Kansas City is the most unlikely — but also among the most deserving. The story of how KC turned itself into one of the nation’s premier soccer cities is the subject of the book: “Perfect Pitch: How Kansas City Became the Heart of American Soccer,” by Nate Bukaty and Rustin Dodd.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), Bukaty describes the journey, from the early days of immigrants playing on local fields to the first professional teams through the triumphs of Sporting KC and the KC Current. The momentum continued not only with games in the World Cup, but four base camps in the Kansas City area.The world’s largest sporting event is coming to the middle of America because, as Bukaty notes, Kansas City earned the bid.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

In less than a month, the first FIFA World Cup game will be played in Kansas City, and it won’t take that long for fans of teams with base camps here to begin arriving.So, what can KC expect?On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), Ignaciao Bottaro, a journalist from Buenos Aires, shares his thoughts on Argentina’s quest to defending its World Cup title that begins in Kansas City. Bottaro was in town recently, reporting for Telefe Noticias, and he tells us his impressions of Kansas City.After a break you’ll hear from Daniel Oordt, the “Orange Suit Man,” of the Dutch fan base. Fans of the Netherlands all wear orange when cheering for their team. Oordt is the maxed out version, a life-long supporter of a national team that has brought him joy and heartbreak. He explains why.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)0:50  - Welcome to all things World Cup 05:54 -  An Argentinian’s first impression of KC 19:04 -  Why KC might want to root for the Netherlands during the World Cup 27:39 - What else is on Blair’s radarSportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

With the FIFA World Cup opening game less than a month away — and less than five weeks before the first match is played in Kansas City — some recent indicators question the event’s expected size and scope.Hotel rooms remain available, as do tickets to most games, heightening fans’ frustrations.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), columnist Vahe Gregorian discusses the latest developments, and KC2026 president Pam Kramer responds to some of the reports as Kansas City prepares for its World Cup close-up.Fan Fest numbers are strong in Kansas City, Kramer says, and each of the six games is trending toward to sellout as anticipation builds for the world’s biggest sporting event.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

Kansas Citians will be “shocked in a good way” by the FIFA World Cup when it arrives here in June, says Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt.He should know. He’s been going to games of the world’s most popular sporting event since 1974, when he was 9.Hunt sat down with SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM) to discuss his World Cup experience and career in soccer. Hunt played in college at SMU and became one of the driving forces behind the formation of Major League Soccer, which was born after the last time the U.S. hosted the World Cup in 1994.The Hunt family made their wealth in the oil business, and Lamar Hunt founded the American Football League and the Dallas Texans, the forerunner to the Chiefs. But the Hunts also were pioneers in U.S. soccer, and Kansas City likely wouldn’t be part of the World Cup without their influence.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:16 - Clak Hunt breaks down why KC will be shocked by World Cup tourism 12:30 - How this stadium soccer stadium saved Major League Soccer 14:22 - Why Kansas City won its World Cup host city bid 15:59 - What else is on Blair’s radar? SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

The draft class is complete. How did the Chiefs fare?The question ultimately cannot be answered for a few years, but the Chiefs made some bold moves, including turning the draft’s first trade. Columnist Sam McDowell and Chiefs insider Pete Sweeney drill down on all the selections and evaluate the class on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM).From first-round pick Mansoor Delane to the final, surprising selection of quarterback Garrett Nussmeier — both from LSU — we break down where the Chiefs potentially succeeded and where roster work remains.Also, a final word on the WNBA preseason game played in Kansas City on Monday night, and what it may say about the city’s chances of landing a team in the league.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)0:50  — Speculation season is over, here how some of our mockdrafts played out 3:08  — The statement the Chiefs made by taking 4 defensive players in a row14:14 - How the offensive picks from the draft could help the Chiefs struggles29:56 - What else is on Blair’s radar? SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

The first day of NFL Draft and with their two first round picks, the Chiefs concentrated on one side of the ball.Defense.They even engineered the draft’s first trade to move up three spots to select cornerback Mansoor Delane of LSU.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), Chiefs beat writer Pete Sweeney, covering the draft in Pittsburgh, breaks down the Chiefs’ evening, which concluded with their selection of Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods at No. 29.We also identify the Chiefs’ needs as the draft continues on Friday and Saturday.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

More than three years after announcing the quest for a new home for the Royals, the team unveiled plans for a ballpark in downtown. They’ll create an 85-acre stadium district in Kansas City’s Crown Center and Washington Square Park.In this special edition of SportsBeat KC, the weekly sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), columnist Vahe Gregorian shares his thoughts on the Royals’ forthcoming new digs.Kauffman Stadium, in its 54th season, has been a popular home for the Royals. Did principal owner John Sherman get it right with Crown Center?And now both of the Truman Sports Complex tenants have announced new homes. With the Chiefs moving out of Arrowhead to a site in Wyandotte County, how much will we miss the franchises’ current status as next-door neighbors?Rundown (timestamps are approximate)0:54  — The downtown ballpark dream has come true. 10:15  — Why parking situation is on all our minds SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

The NFL Draft is near.The Chiefs hold nine selections over the draft’s three days, with two picks in the first round. It’s the team’s best draft position in years — thanks to a poor finish to last season.A successful draft would help the Chiefs avoid this kind of draft position in the future.“You don’t want to be here, but we’ve gotten past that phase, and we’re in it,” Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said. “There’s a good number of picks we’ve got here.”On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), Chiefs insider Pete Sweeney and columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian offer their final pre-draft thoughts, starting with what the Chiefs should do with their first-round picks.Edge rusher with their first selection? Wide receiver? Cornerback? A tackle for the offensive line? We agree on the positions of need, but not necessarily the players.It will be a fascinating draft for the Chiefs as they begin the quest to reestablish the dominance they’ve experienced throughout much of the Reid era.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:20  — Why we love draft week17:18  — Who the Chief’s may take in the first round? 29:12  — The local talent you should keep an eye on during the draft31:42 - What else is on Blair’s radar? SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

Kansas City has detailed plans for a new Royals ballpark at Washington Square Park, offering to contribute $600 million to the stadium’s $1.9 billion price tag.Is this the Royals’ future? Well, a few questions remain.Star columnist Sam McDowell, who helped break the news of the stadium proposal, identified what obstacles may lie ahead on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM).Also, a talent drain is taking shape on the Kansas basketball program. Seven players have already entered the transfer portal, with just one announcing that he was staying. And no player from another program has announced he was joining the Jayhawks.KU beat writer Shreyas Laddha discusses why for the second straight year, KU seems to be playing catch-up in the portal.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:15 — Is the downtown ballpark actually happening? 7:00  — What would the nearby stadium district look like? 11:55 — KU’s transfer portal madness26:22 - What else is on Blair’s radar?

Chiefs receiver Rashee Rice won’t be suspended by the NFL, plus KC picked up a former first-round cornerback in Kaiir Elam. Those two positions will be a priority when the Chiefs are on the clock for the NFL Draft later this month. Will they have an impact on the Chiefs’ plans?After the break, former professional soccer star Matt Besler talks the World Cup, and what Kansas City should expect when the games and base camps arrive in June. Besler would know — He was a starting defender on the 2014 U.S. World Cup team that emerged from the group stage to the knockout round in Brazil.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)0:15 — Rashee Rice won’t be suspended. How does that affect Chiefs’ plans?7:20  — Chiefs take flyer on former first-round cornerback14:09 — The first Kansas Citian to play in the World Cup talks the base camp experience 19:02 — Is Kansas City ready for the World Cup? 24:26 —  What else is on Blair’s radar? 

Opening day at The K was a success for the Royals, who beat the Minnesota Twins in the first home game. But only a handful of home openers at Kauffman Stadium remain for the team that’s actively looking for a new stadium. So where will it be built — and why has it taken this long? Royals principal owner John Sherman addressed those questions before Monday’s game. Star columnists San McDowell and Vahe Gregorian discussed the topic on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM).Then, between games and base camps, at least 10 national teams will spend time in Kansas City during the FIFA World Cup. None is smaller — or perhaps more excited — than the Caribbean island nation of Curacao.By area and population, it’s the smallest country to ever qualify for the World Cup.Gilbert Martina, president of the Curacao Football Federation, told us how his team is preparing for the global stage … and Kansas City.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:15 — John Sherman’s latest update on a new Royals stadium11:04  —  How Royals looked on Opening day at The K17:31 — Curacao’s World Cup journey & what KC can expect36:20 — What else is on Blair’s radar?

Kansas basketball’s NCAA Tournament run came to a heartbreaking end with a buzzer-beating loss to St. John’s in the second round. Now, the Jayhawks await word from Bill Self on his coaching future due to the heart issues he’s been battling since 2022.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), columnist Sam McDowell discusses what’s in store for the Jayhawks this offseason and how the program might handle a coaching search.Also, opening day for the Royals is Friday and beat writer Jaylon Thompson breaks down the roster, where the team has improved over last year, and how Royals players’ success in the World Baseball Classic — there were many — can carry into the upcoming season.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:20 — The struggles that led to KU’s early March Madness exit9:57  — Is this the end of the Bill Self era? 20:08 — The Royals players who shined at World Baseball Classic33:36 — What else is on Blair’s radar? 

Kansas freshman sensation Darryn Peterson has had anything but a dull season. At times, he’s looked like the best player in college basketball. At others, he’s frustrated fans — and possibly his coach — by missing games for any number of ailments. So what’s going on behind the scenes with Peterson? Has his NBA Draft stock fallen? And what’s the deal with the cramping that has persisted for almost the entirety of his freshman year? The Star’s Shreyas Laddha dove into these topics — and more — in a feature on the KU basketball star. We discuss Peterson’s tumultuous season on SportsBeat KC, the podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:16 — Why did Peterson miss so much time this season?6:45 — Peterson’s NBA future8:48 — Is KU on upset watch vs. Cal Baptist?

The Chiefs have found their backup quarterback in a trade — Justin Fields — with the hope that he doesn’t have to play in games. After all, that would mean Patrick Mahomes’ knee injury has lingered and he can’t open the season. As it is, Fields, acquired from the NY Jets, will play a critical role while Mahomes recovers.Beat writer Pete Sweeney breaks down the trade, along with other standout roster moves in free agency over the previous week and how they’ll impact the team’s approach in the NFL Draft on the latest SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR.Also, columnist Vahe Gregorian shares his thoughts on the draws for Kansas and Missouri for the NCAA Tournament. The Tigers appeared to get a kiss from the selection committee, the Jayhawks a slap.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:02  — What Justin Fields brings to the Chiefs 8:50 — A breakdown of Chiefs’ free agency pickups16:03 —  How Mizzou got a lucky draw. KU, not so much33:22 — What else is on Blair’s Radar?

Free agency quickly impacted the Chiefs from the opening minutes Monday. It was reported that the team had signed Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker, while resigning star tight end Travis Kelce.But with major additions also came subtractions. Gone are cornerback Jaylen Watson (Rams), safety Bryan Cook (Bengals) and backup quarterback Gardner Minshew (Cardinals).How did the Chiefs fare overall? Columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian shared their thoughts on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR.Also, the Big 12 tournament arrives in Kansas City and Missouri heads to the SEC tournament in Nashville. What are the prospects for KU, K-State and Mizzou this week?Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:25 — Did Chiefs overpay in signing Walker? 9:25 — Travis Kelce’s return 20:20 — KU & Mizzou’s chances in the Big 12 & SEC tournaments33:01 — What else is on Blair’s radar? 

Trent McDuffie’s time with the Kansas City Chiefs has come to a close. In a blockbuster trade Wednesday, the Chiefs traded McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams for a haul of draft picks.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, beat writer Pete Sweeney,  columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian react to KC trading one of its best and most popular players.How will the Chiefs replace McDuffie, an All-Pro slot cornerback who helped the Chiefs win two Super Bowls — and how does this move impact the team’s draft approach? We discuss on this special edition of SportsBeat KC.0:35 — Our reactions to the Chiefs’ haul of picks4:50  — What are the Chiefs losing by letting go of McDuffie?6:17 — The Chiefs’ secondary, as it stands10:01 — KC’s track record of developing top cornerbacks

With the Chiefs set for the No. 9 overall pick in the draft, they got an up-close look at pro football’s top prospects at the NFL Combine. Running back Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame, and edge rushers Rueben Bain of Miami and Texas Tech’s David Bailey drew plenty of attention. But will any of them be available when the Chiefs pick comes around in next month’s draft? On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, columnist Sam McDowell and beat writer Pete Sweeney, who covered the Combine in Indianapolis, share their thoughts on the top players and what the Chiefs could be thinking with free agency starting next week.Also, as the FIFA World Cup approaches and Kansas City braces for six games, we speak with a fan of a team playing and staying here. Bas Rol lives in Amsterdam and is a huge fan of the Dutch national team. Rol — who used to live in Kansas City and still cheers on the Chiefs and Royals — breaks down what it’s like to be part of the Orange Army and Chiefs Kingdom.

The Super Bowl closes the NFL season and the NFL Combine opens the next one. The stakes are high for the Chiefs at this year’s scouting event in Indianapolis. This is where the team begins to get better.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney and Star columnist Sam McDowell break down what the Chiefs should look to accomplish at the Combine — and which top prospects might interest them.Also, just as the Winter Olympics wrap up, the next big international sporting competition is on the horizon. The World Baseball Classic begins next week, and the Royals are well represented with eight players spread across five teams. KC catcher Salvador Perez, who serves as a captain for Venezuela, speaks to the national pride in the event.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)0:03 – What’s the point of the NFL Combine? 11:08  — The Chiefs’ priorities at the Combine20:05 — Which Royals will be in the World Baseball Classic?22:03  — What’s on Blair’s Radar?

When it comes to FIFA World Cup base camps, Kansas City can flex. Three of the world’s top-seven teams — Argentina, England and Netherlands — have made it official: They’re summer camping in KC.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, columnist Sam McDowell explains how Kansas City created the conditions to land those teams — and what it means to have them and their fans coming to the Heartland.Also, Kansas State reporter Kellis Robinett goes inside the coaching change at K-State. Jerome Tang is out, and the Wildcats are in the market for a new men’s basketball coach. Complicating matters: Tang was fired with cause for postgame press conference comments, and he plans to fight the school for his $18.67 million buy out.1:07 — Why England, Argentina and the Netherlands chose KC9:37 —  The barbecue restaurant that lured Argentina to KC16:58 — Did K-State make the right call in firing Jerome Tang? 29:36 - What’s on Blair’s radar this week

Top-ranked Arizona didn’t face the potential top player in the NBA Draft when it visited Kansas on Monday Night, but it did take on a motivated KU team in a raucous environment. The Jayhawks prevailed 82-78, even without Darryn Peterson, in dramatic fashion.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, KU beat writers Gary Bedore and Shreyas Laddha break down the action at Allen Fieldhouse: how the Jayhawks rallied from an 11-point second-half deficit and why Bill Self was emotional about this victory.After a break, KCUR interim news director Madeline Fox discusses where Kansas City stands with FIFA World Cup base camps. National teams are beginning to identify where they want to train and lodge during their stay in North America this summer, and Kansas City finds itself in an advantageous position.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)0:51 - Beat Writers break down the electric KU game vs Arizona7:37 - KU’s To be or not be with Darryn Peterson 11:40 - What did KU prove?15:22 - What we know about World Cup Base Camps in KC20:19 - Is KC ready for the World Cup?25:53 - What’s on Blair’s RadarSportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Randy Mason, Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Alison Booth, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

The Royals are packing their bags and will soon be off to spring training in Surprise, Arizona. But before they leave, they greeted fans and chatted up the season at Royals Rally at Kauffman Stadium.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, beat writer Jaylon Thompson and columnist Vahe Gregorian dig into the upcoming season and whether the Royals can return to their playoff form of two years ago.Also, you’ll hear from Chairman and CEO John Sherman on the latest in their stadium search, GM JJ Picollo on the team’s biggest needs and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino with his take on the shorter distances to the fences at The K this season.Then after the break, the vote heard all around the country: Vahe digs into why he didn’t vote for Bill Belichick in the recent Pro Football Hall of Fame vote after explaining it in a column last week. Rundown (timestamps are approximate)1:07 — John Sherman talks stadium update9:21 - JJ Picollo on the lessons learned last season14:20 - Vinnie Pasquantino on The K’s shortened fences 21:32 - Vahe on why he didn’t vote for Bill Belichick 

The offensive coordinator who was part of the Chiefs staff through one of their most productive stretches is back in Kansas City. Eric Bieniemy, who had three different jobs in the past three years, has been rehired.That also means Matt Nagy, who held the job for the past three years, is out. Why the moves? On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, columnist Sam McDowell and Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney explore the moves and discuss what it means for the Chiefs.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)0:23 — Why Eric Bieniemy? 9:13 — Who else did the Chiefs interview for OC? 18:25 — How the Chiefs’ offense got stale last season26:21 — KU vs BYU & Royals Rally 

Local college basketball has experienced some wild mood swings this season — but at the moment KU and Mizzou are feeling better about themselves than last month. K-State, not so much.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, beat writers Shreyas Laddha and Kellis Robinett along with columnist Vahe Gregorian take the pulse of KU, K-State and Mizzou, and get into how the next few weeks might unfold.KU could go as far as oft-injured freshman sensation Darryn Peterson can take them. But how far is that, exactly? Meanwhile, Mizzou has found new life in conference play, but that part of the schedule hasn’t been so kind to K-State.

The 2026 Baseball Hall of Fame class will be announced next Tuesday. And players like former Kansas City Royals outfielder Carlos Beltran and Andruw Jones are seeking to be selected after appearing on the ballot for several years.On SportsBeat KC, three KC Star writers with Hall of Fame ballots discuss their selections.According to the Rules for Election by the Baseball Writers Association of America, voting is based on record, ability, integrity, sportsmanship, character and contributions to the team. It takes 75% of about 400 ballots cast to make the Hall.So who gets the call this year?SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

The NFL playoffs are set to begin, and for the first time in more than a decade, the Chiefs won’t be part of the action.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney sums up a season gone wrong. The Chiefs, who have appeared in five of the past six Super Bowls, lost their final five games to finish 6-11.Questions abound: Will Travis Kelce return next season? Will Patrick Mahomes be healthy? Which free agents will the Chiefs target, and with a top ten pick in the NFL Draft, what direction will the Chiefs take?It will be a Chiefs offseason like no other in the past decade.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen. 

As the year comes to an end, SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, is breaking down Kansas City’s most influential figures from 2025.Star columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian discuss five people — two players, two administrators and a coach — who helped shape the region’s sports landscape and tell the story of our teams.Who made the list? It starts with Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt, who last week announced the franchise would leave its home of more than a half-century, Arrowhead Stadium, and relocate to Wyandotte County, Kansas, for the 2031 season.Also, Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney breaks down the Chiefs’ Week 18 road game vs. the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. What’s at stake for the Chiefs, beside draft position?Check out this week’s podcast.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Randy Mason, Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

It’s the biggest Kansas City professional sports franchise move in more than five decades. The Chiefs are moving to Kansas.The team and state made the major announcement Monday in Topeka, and on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, columnist Sam McDowell breaks down why the decision to relocate was made and what it means to the team and metropolitan area.After a break, Royals beat writer Jaylon Thompson provides an update on the latest moves by the Royals. They’ve added outfield help but is it enough?SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Randy Mason, Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

The Chiefs have reached a stopping point. They won’t be in the playoffs thanks to last weekend’s loss to the LA Chargers, ending Kansas City’s 10-year run of postseason appearances, the second longest in NFL history.But the biggest news was Patrick Mahomes suffering a season-ending knee injury. He underwent surgery Monday and the recovery has started — but his timetable to return is uncertain. On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney and Star columnist Sam McDowell discuss this new reality for the Chiefs and what it means as the team closes out 2025.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen

Another week, another painful loss for the Chiefs. This time to the Houston Texans at home, resulting in serious damage to their playoff chances. On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney and columnist Sam McDowell explain how the Chiefs fell for the fourth time in five games. Then, we talked Kansas City’s draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Star reporter Pete Grathoff breaks down the group stage games coming to KC, starting with the opening game for defending champion Argentina.In a whirlwind of events at Kansas State, the Wildcats had a football coach resign, hired a popular replacement and turned down an invitation to a bowl game. Beat writer Kellis Robinett catches his breath to share his thoughts on the developments.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen

Another week, another huge game for the Chiefs and their playoff chances. This time, the Houston Texans visit Kansas City on “Sunday Night Football,” and the teams are headed in different directions. The Chiefs have dropped three of four; the Texans have won four straight.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney breaks down the keys for a Chiefs win, KC’s playoff chances and the latest troubling issue: injuries on the offensive line.Then, we look ahead at the upcoming draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That’s when teams will assigned positions for the group stage games.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

It’s not a happy Thanksgiving for the Chiefs. Playing on the holiday for the first time in nearly two decades, the Chiefs dropped a 31-28 decision to the Dallas Cowboys and damaged their playoff chances.How much? On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnist Sam McDowell share their thoughts on what went wrong and how the outcome impacts the season.Patrick Mahomes threw four touchdown passes in his NFL debut at the stadium near where he grew up, but it wasn’t enough to overcome poor defense, penalties and other problems.Check out our full coverage of the Kansas City Chiefs: https://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/ 

Things were looking bleak for the Chiefs in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts. A drive ended with Kareem Hunt’s fumble — was that really his first lost fumble since 2017? — and the Chiefs trailed by 11 points.But the defense held, Patrick Mahomes, Rashee Rice and Kareem Hunt put the offense in gear and the Chiefs rallied for a 23-20 overtime victory at Arrowhead Stadium in a game that may have saved their season.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, Star columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian along with Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney break down the biggest moments from the win, what it means for the Chiefs’ playoff chances and look ahead to the Thanksgiving Day showdown against the Dallas Cowboys.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

With consecutive losses, the Chiefs have hit a rough patch. Can they work free or are they stuck? Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney breaks down where things stand with a Chiefs team, coming off the loss in Denver and having to face another division leader this weekend in the Indianapolis Colts.Also, a shakeup at the Current since falling in their NWSL playoff opener included Vlatko Andonovski the coach who guided the organization’s most successful regular season. Where did he land? Soccer correspondent Daniel Sperry discusses Current’s moves, plus how Sporting KC can benefit from the MLS’s decision to switch its playing calendar to align with major European leagues.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Randy Mason, Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

Not often in the Patrick Mahomes era have the Chiefs looked up in the AFC West standing this late in the season. But here they are in third place with a 5-4 record, making Sunday’s game at the first-place Denver Broncos critical to their division chances.On SportsBeat KC, Chiefs Insider Pete Sweeney and Star columnist Sam McDowell discuss the game and what it will take for the Chiefs to capture a 10th straight AFC West title — and if rookie left tackle Josh Simmons returns this week, how much should he play?Also, Star soccer correspondent Daniel Sperry breaks down the crushing end to the KC Current’s playoff run, a loss to Gotham FC in the NWSL quarterfinals.Sports Beat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Randy Mason, Irvin Zhang, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

The Chiefs have crossed the halfway point of their schedule, and if the season ended today they wouldn’t be in the playoffs. It’s a strange place to be for the team that’s played in five of the last six Super Bowls. On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, Star columnist Sam McDowell shares his thoughts on where thing stand with the Chiefs, starting with Sunday’s loss to the Buffalo Bills. The sequence at the end of the first half in which the Chiefs settled for a field goal from the 1, was critical in the outcome, according to McDowell. As the Chiefs head into a bye week, we look at the second half of the season and speculate what it’s going to take to make the postseason for an 11th straight year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs keep rolling. They polished off the Washington Commanders 28-7 on Monday Night Football for their third straight victory and fifth in the last six games. It also sets them up nicely for a showdown on the road Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, Chiefs beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian break down the triumph and look ahead to Sunday’s huge game against the Buffalo Bills. After a break, we discuss the big events in college football last weekend. The news was good for Kansas State. Not so much for Kansas and Missouri, not to mention a bunch of coaches who have been fired recently. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs won in a way NFL teams aren’t supposed to win. They dominated the Las Vegas Raiders in a 31-0 victory and held the visitors to three first downs and fewer than 100 total yards. On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnist Sam McDowell explain how it happened and what it means for the Chiefs, who return to action on “Monday Night Football” against the Washington Commanders. Also, the Chiefs welcomed back receiver Rashee Rice — and he delivered a big game — but are still missing left tackle Josh Simmons, and now defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott could be lost for the season. The Sunflower Showdown arrives this weekend when Kansas State travels to Kansas. The Wildcats own a 16-game winning streak in the series, but beat writers Kellis Robinett and Shreyas Laddha discuss why both teams are feeling pressure in this game. Check out this week’s podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs delivered their best performance of the season by defeating the Detroit Lions on Sunday Night Football. Patrick Mahomes played like an MVP, and we know what looks like. The Chiefs defense held the Lions to less than half of their scoring total, and they got a solid performance from a new starter, left tackle Jaylon Moore. Columnist Sam McDowell Chiefs beat writer Pete Sweeney break it down on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR and looking ahead to the long-awaited return of wide receiver Rashee Rice, who comes off his season-opening six-game suspension in time for Sunday’s home game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Also, we discuss the latest developments in the Kansas City stadium story. What does it mean to have a new Jackson County executive? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs had control of their Monday Night Football game at Jacksonville, then lost it, regained it, and finally went down to defeat. On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, beat writer Pete Sweeney breaks down what went wrong in the crushing 31-28 loss. In other topics, the FIFA World Cup in North America is ninth months away, and Kansas City will be part of the action. What progress has been made? KC2026 CEO Pam Kramer provides a snapshot of what’s been happening, and what needs to happen as Kansas City prepares for the world’s biggest sporting event. Missouri takes on Alabama on Saturday in one of the biggest college football games in the Tigers’ SEC era. We preview the college football weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs played a complete game and the Royals completed a season. Both are topics on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR. Chiefs beat writer Pete Sweeney breaks down Kansas City’s convincing 37-20 triumph over the Baltimore Ravens and what it means as they take on an a Jacksonville Jaguars team that suddenly looks rugged. The Royals finished their season with a winning record but missed the playoffs. Is the glass half-full or half-empty? And how does next year shape up? Beat writer Jaylon Thompson joins columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian in the discussion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All fixed, right? The Chiefs won their first game this season, at the New York Giants on Sunday. It wasn’t artful but a much-needed victory, and the Chiefs might have found a weapon at wide receiver in the process. On SportsBeat KC, sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnist Sam McDowell break down the triumph near Gotham. and look ahead to Sunday’s home game against the Baltimore Ravens. Also, Star correspondent Daniel Sperry reviews the huge soccer weekend in Kansas City. He covers the Current, Sporting KC and the Premier League’s fan festival at the Power & Light District. Was the party at the P&L a preview of what Kansas City can expect with World Cup visitors next summer? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 0-2 Chiefs. That hasn’t happened since 2014, Andy Reid’s second year with the organization and three years before Kansas City drafted Patrick Mahomes. But that’s where the Chiefs stand two weeks into the NFL season with the latest loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in a Super Bowl rematch. On SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnist Sam McDowell discuss the key factors in the Chiefs’ slow start, especially on the offensive side. When the strong-armed quarterback is the team’s leading rusher you know there are multiple issues. After a break, Royals beat writer Jaylon Thompson and columnist Vahe Gregorian set up the season’s final two weeks and break down the long odds of the Royals’ playoff chances. Hey, it’s late in the year and the Royals remain alive. But a second straight postseason appearance is a longshot...even with Salvador Perez reaching career milestones while improving his Hall of Fame credentials. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs find themselves in a rare place, coming off a loss to open the season. They fell to the LA Chargers in Brazil last week and on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, the coverage team breaks down what went wrong. Beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian explain the problems on defense, as the Chargers built an early lead and held on to their first victory over the Chiefs since 2021. Patrick Mahomes was excellent but the Chiefs offense was dealt a major blow early in the game when wide receiver Xavier Worthy suffered a shoulder injury. We cover it all on SportsBeat KC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seven months after losing the Super Bowl, the Chiefs are back in action with the regular-season opener on Friday against the Los Angeles Chargers, in Sao Paulo, Brazil of all places. On SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star sports podcast, beat writer Pete Sweeney breaks down what to expect from a team bidding for its fourth straight Super Bowl appearance. First, we review the roster moves over the past week that helped shape this team. After a break, we look ahead at how standouts like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Chris Jones and Isiah Pacheco will fare. Also, we submit our final record predictions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Football kicked off last weekend for KU and K-State and the Chiefs are counting down the days to their opener. On SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, we cover the college gridiron with beat writers Kellis Robinett and Shreyas Laddha who covered games in remarkable settings, with mixed results from their teams. After a break, you’ll meet new Chiefs beat writer Pete Sweeney. He breaks down the Chiefs roster with Star columnist Sam McDowell and looks ahead to the Chiefs opener the following week against the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Things are a little different as the Chiefs prepare for their third and final preseason game. In most years, reserves would get first-team snaps in practice. But this year, Andy Reid said he’ll play starters like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Chris Jones to open Friday’s game at home against the Chicago Bears. On SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell discuss the change, and where the focus will be with the regular season opener two weeks away. Also, college football season opens this weekend and Kansas schools are front and center. Kansas State will meet Iowa State in Dublin, Ireland, in the traditional first game. Later that day, Kansas opens its renovated stadium against Fresno State. Will the Kansas schools play up to their roles as favorites? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who is trending up and down for Chiefs preseason? Breaking down Kansas City Chiefs' preseason opener. Who's trending? Insights on veterans, young players, and roster battles on SportsBeat KC podcast. Chiefs preseason, Kansas City Chiefs, NFL preseason, Chiefs roster Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs will have had three weeks of training camp practices by the time the preseason opener at Arizona kicks off Saturday. “You get to see some different looks,” offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said. “It become real, and these guys are all competing for spots.” Who needs to have big moments to improve his stock? Star columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian discussed that topic and more on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast. Rookies, like first-round draft pick Josh Simmons, will get much attention Some veterans will as well, especially among non-starters. Also, McDowell and Gregorian determine if the Royals were winners or losers at the trade deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices