Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid stated Friday that it is unlikely two-time MVP Patrick Mahomes will participate in the team's preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams next week. Reid indicated that Mahomes might skip the entire three-game preseason slate as he continues to recover from knee surgery. The Chiefs are scheduled to open their regular season against the Denver Broncos on September 15.
Mahomes underwent surgery in December to repair torn ligaments in his left knee. Despite the procedure, he has been ahead of his rehabilitation schedule and participated fully in the offseason program before reporting to training camp on time. Dr. Dan Cooper, the surgeon who performed the operation, cleared Mahomes late last month to practice without restrictions.
"There's a pretty good chance I don't play him," Reid said of Mahomes. "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."
While Mahomes is an experienced player, Reid noted the need for the Chiefs' backup quarterbacks to gain game experience. The team acquired veteran Justin Fields from the New York Jets to serve as the primary backup, and seventh-round draft pick Garrett Nussmeier also needs reps in the new offense. "We've got new people ... behind (Mahomes) that need some work," Reid added. "The more reps they get, the better."
Mahomes himself has expressed eagerness to return to play and take his first hit to feel fully recovered.
The Chiefs are also managing several other player injuries. Offensive guard Trey Smith was examined by a hip specialist as a precaution, though Reid downplayed the severity. Defensive end Ashton Gillotte is dealing with a hamstring strain, linebacker Jeffrey Bassa has a groin injury, linebacker Drue Tranquill is experiencing back pain, and wide receiver Xavier Worthy has a shoulder issue. Defensive back L'Jarius Sneed continues to manage a knee problem, and cornerback Mansoor Delane has a shoulder injury.
Wide receiver Cyrus Allen, a fifth-round pick, returned to practice after a shin bruise but was held out of contact drills. "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."
