Chiefs Coach Andy Reid Talks Mahomes and Preseason Plans

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid expressed doubt about quarterback Patrick Mahomes playing in the preseason opener against the Rams next week. Mahomes, who is a two-time MVP, may not participate in the three-game exhibition series at all. This decision follows his surgery to repair torn ligaments in his left knee last December.

Despite the injury, Mahomes has shown impressive progress in his rehabilitation. He fully engaged in the offseason program and arrived at training camp as scheduled. Dr. Dan Cooper from Dallas, who performed the surgery, approved Mahomes for unrestricted practice participation last month.

“There’s a pretty good chance I don’t play him,” Reid said. “Percentages are leaning that way. I don’t know if I will play him the second or third game— I don’t know that— but percentages probably lean against doing that.”

Mahomes has significant game experience, which reduces the necessity for preseason play. However, his competitive spirit might drive Reid to let him play briefly, perhaps in the second game against Tampa Bay. Mahomes has expressed eagerness to endure his first real tackle to feel fully immersed in football again.

The Chiefs have several quarterbacks who would benefit from preseason experience. Notably, they acquired veteran Justin Fields from the Jets to serve as the main backup. Additionally, Garrett Nussmeier, a promising LSU quarterback picked in the seventh round of the draft, is seen as a developmental prospect.

“We’ve got new people … behind (Mahomes) that need some work,” Reid said. “The more reps they get, the better.”

Amid preparations, several players missed practice due to injuries. Offensive guard Trey Smith, a two-time Pro Bowl participant, consulted a hip specialist as a precaution. Reid minimized concerns, assuring that “he’s going to be OK.” Other injuries, including those affecting defensive end Ashton Gillotte and linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, appear short-term.

Wide receiver Cyrus Allen returned to practice after a shin bruise kept him out briefly. Although he was restricted from contact drills, Reid commended his commitment and performance.

“He did a good job when he was back in there, so that’s a positive,” Reid said. “He’s at all the meetings. He’s focused in. He wants to get out there. He doesn’t want to miss. He’s been working hard. We’ll just ease him back in, like I said.”