1988 was the 29th season of the National Football League for the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs finished 4-11 overall, finishing fifth in the West Division. The team scored 254 points and allowed 320. Quarterback Steve DeBerg passed for 2,935 yards and a touchdown, while Stephone Paige led all pass catchers with 61 receptions for 902 yards. Carlos Carson provided receiving assistance, and Paul Palmer added rushing yards. Kenney and DeBerg fought for the starting position, but neither was able to maintain a winning streak in 1988.
The Chiefs scored on the first possession of the game. At 9:34, Paul Palmer completed a 14 yard pass to Steve DeBerg. Vince Abbott kicked a 42 yard field goal. The Chargers responded with a 10-play drive that included a Paul Palmer fumble recovery in the end zone. On the next drive, the Chiefs had seven first downs, and scored three touchdowns on Paul Palmer’s two touchdowns.
The 1988 Kansas City Chiefs finished with a 4-11-1 record. They finished 4-4 at home, and 0-7-1 away. The Chiefs went 2-6 against AFC West rivals. They did not make it to the playoffs. They finished last in AFC West. But their success is still a reason for pride and hope. This team was able to turn their disappointing season into a season that will last a lifetime.
The Chiefs’ 1988 season ended with winds of change throughout the organization. Jack Steadman resigned in December 8th, and Jim Schaaf was relieved from his duties. Carl Peterson was elected president on December 19. This was a significant change from the previous year when the Chiefs were 4-11-1. It was also the last year they wore red pants. Their red pants were introduced by Hall of Fame coach Hank Stram in 1968.