Andy Reid Fires Wide Receivers Coach Connor Embree Amid Chiefs Staff Overhaul
Kansas City, Mo., January 13, 2026 – Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid announced the firing of wide receivers coach Connor Embree on January 8, 2026, marking the first significant change to his coaching staff following a disappointing 6-11 season. The move comes as Reid evaluates the team’s offensive struggles, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ season-ending ACL and LCL injury in Week 15. With offensive coordinator Matt Nagy interviewing for head coaching positions, the Chiefs face potential further staff shifts ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft and free agency.
Firing of Connor Embree
Embree, who joined the Chiefs in 2019 as a defensive assistant and transitioned to the offensive side in 2021, served as wide receivers coach since March 2023. His tenure coincided with struggles in the passing game, where the Chiefs ranked 20th in total offense and 25th in rushing during the 2025 season. Mahomes posted career lows in completion percentage (62.7%), touchdowns (22), and passer rating (89.6), while receivers like Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy dropped passes at high rates. Reid emphasized the need for motivation after the season, stating he was “even more motivated to get this offseason started” following the team’s Week 18 loss.
Potential Offensive Coordinator Changes
With Nagy’s contract expiring and interviews scheduled with teams like the Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, and Arizona Cardinals, Reid may need to replace him. Rumors have surfaced about candidates such as Kliff Kingsbury, who coached Mahomes at Texas Tech, and Mike McDaniel, the former Miami Dolphins head coach known for innovative offenses. Reid has historically favored coaches from his tree, like Nagy and Doug Pederson, but external hires could signal a shift. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo also faces interest from teams, potentially leading to more changes.
Key Facts and Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Chiefs 2025 Record | 6-11, first losing season under Reid |
| Mahomes 2025 Stats | 3,587 yards, 22 TDs, 11 INTs, 62.7% completion |
| Reid’s Tenure | 13 seasons, 149-64 record, 3 Super Bowls |
| Embree’s Tenure | 7 years with Chiefs, promoted to WR coach in 2023 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Connor Embree fired?
Embree was fired due to the Chiefs’ offensive struggles, particularly in the passing game, where receivers dropped passes frequently and the team failed to generate consistent production despite Mahomes’ presence.
Who might replace Matt Nagy as offensive coordinator?
Potential candidates include Kliff Kingsbury, who has a history with Mahomes, and Mike McDaniel, known for creative offenses. Reid may also promote internally or hire from his coaching tree.
How does this affect the Chiefs’ future?
The changes aim to address offensive inefficiencies and prepare for Mahomes’ return from injury. Reid plans to stay with the team, focusing on personnel and scheme adjustments for 2026.