The Minnesota Vikings and Kansas City Chiefs began the 2026 season with identical 4-0 records. Both clubs missed the playoffs last year, but have immediately transformed the tone of their seasons.
Their unblemished starts have also put them in a unique NFL group, as both teams have reached that mark for the first time since 2013.
Quick Fact
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Team | Kansas City Chiefs |
| Season Start | 4 0 |
| Week 1 | Chiefs 31, Denver 10 |
| Week 2 | Chiefs 33, Indianapolis 30, OT |
| Week 3 | Chiefs 24, Miami 10 |
| Week 4 | Chiefs 30, Raiders 27 |
| Total Points | 118 |
| Current Status | Unbeaten after four games |
Chiefs and Vikings complete early-season turnaround
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) observes warmups before the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images.
The Chiefs ended 6-11. Both teams began 2026 hoping to rebound from poor seasons.
Two Former Playoff Missers Start 4 0
This is the first time since 2013 when two clubs who missed the playoffs the previous year started the season 4-0.The accomplishment placed both franchises in a category that has stayed unchanged for almost a decade.
The Vikings began their season with a 39-22 victory over Green Bay. In Week 2, they defeated Chicago 9-3 before overcoming Tampa Bay 23-16 for their third consecutive victory. Minnesota rounded up their 4-0 start with a 15-10 victory over Miami in Week 4.
The Vikings have allowed only 51 points in four games. The defense restricted Chicago and Miami to three points each.
Chiefs follow last season with a strong start
After a rough 2025 season, Kansas City returned to the new season with fresh vigor. That was a significant shift for a squad that had been one of the AFC’s top performers in recent years. The Chiefs began the 2018 season with a 31-10 victory over Denver at Arrowhead Stadium.
Although their paths have diverged, both teams have had one of the league’s best starts. The Minnesota Vikings have been propelled by their defense, while the Kansas City Chiefs have achieved success with a higher-scoring offense.
The Minnesota Vikings will next face the New Orleans Saints, while the Kansas City Chiefs want to sustain their momentum in the coming weeks.
