KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is gearing up to face Houston on Saturday unless his injured ankle prevents him from adequately protecting himself or puts the team’s performance at risk. Mahomes suffered a mild high-ankle sprain during a 21-7 victory over Cleveland last Sunday. He began treatment immediately during the flight home and spent more than 12 hours on additional recovery at the practice facility, despite most of the team taking the day off on Monday.
On Tuesday, Mahomes returned to practice with backup Carson Wentz present, highlighting his determination to contribute to the team. “You don’t want to go out there and put yourself in harm’s way. It’s football, and hits are part of the game. However, I want to ensure I can protect myself,” Mahomes remarked. He also expressed the desire to fully participate in the game plan and maintain mobility within the pocket.
Mahomes has a history of ankle injuries, having previously sustained a similar sprain against Jacksonville in the 2019 season and dealing with a more severe injury during the playoffs against the Jaguars in 2022. While he was unable to finish that game, he received sufficient treatment to play effectively in subsequent AFC Championship and Super Bowl games. “The one against Jacksonville was worse. It was significant. Thankfully, this injury is responding better and quicker. I just need to be in a stronger position for the next game against the Bengals,” he explained.
Fortunately for Mahomes, he has more time to recover this season compared to two years ago. The Chiefs have already secured the AFC West title and a playoff slot, allowing him the option to sit out a game or two to ensure full health for the postseason. However, this upcoming three-game span is critical, beginning with Houston and followed by games against the Steelers on Christmas Day and the Broncos during the final weekend of the regular season. The Chiefs, currently holding a 13-1 record, are in a tight race for the No. 1 seed and the only playoff bye, with the Bills two games behind but having the tiebreaker from an earlier match.
“Every game counts,” noted Chiefs head coach Andy Reid. “If your players are healthy enough to compete, they’ll play.” While Mahomes is known for his resilience and willingness to play through injuries, Reid is confident that Mahomes will be upfront about how he feels throughout the week. “He’ll handle this situation, and if he can’t go, Carson will take over those reps. We have complete faith in Carson stepping in if needed,” Reid stated.
Wentz, who recently signed a $3.325 million deal with Kansas City to serve as Mahomes’ backup, has extensive experience in the NFL, having played nearly 100 games. He successfully completed both pass attempts for 20 yards during the closing minutes of the game against the Browns, helping the Chiefs secure the win. “I got a taste at the end of last game and felt good. I will prepare the same way this week. Patrick has dealt with bumps and bruises all season,” Wentz remarked.
In other news, defensive back Chamarri Conner (concussion) and left tackle D.J. Humphries (hamstring) did not participate in practice on Tuesday. Wide receiver Marquise Brown (shoulder surgery) is on track to make his regular-season debut against Houston after a promising week of practice. “The doctors say he’s healing well, but we’ll see,” Reid commented. Meanwhile, cornerback Steven Nelson, who recently returned from retirement to join the Chiefs’ practice squad, is less likely to play this week, according to Reid.
