Patrick Mahomes, the dude who tore multiple ligaments back in December, is “most likely” starting Week 1 for the Chiefs. Seriously, folks, head coach Andy Reid all but confirmed it on Tuesday. This isn’t just a big deal, it’s a jaw-dropper after an injury like that, showing the kind of grit you just gotta respect even if they’re not our guys.
The Miracle Man and His Main Target
Reid didn’t just casually drop the Mahomes bomb, he backed it up. Our dude has apparently met every single threshold Reid set for his recovery. Reid said, “He hasn’t missed a day…Other than having a brace on his leg, everything looks normal. He’s running around the same way he’s always done and throwing the ball the way he’s always done. I think we’ll be fine there.” That’s wild, right? A torn ligament in December and he’s back for the season opener. Just when you think you’ve seen it all in this league.
And it’s not just Mahomes. His top receiver, Rashee Rice, is also good to go. Rice had a chaotic offseason with a short jail sentence and a cleanup surgery on a 2024 knee injury, limiting him through much of camp. But Reid is confident, noting, “I liked the way he’s progressed coming off the knee. Every day, he’s gotten better and stronger. His endurance is better. He had a chance to play in the last game a few plays. I thought that was important. I think he’ll be fine going into this game.” Having both of those guys back and ready to roll is huge for their offense heading into the season.
A Blindside Blow and Safety Shuffle
Now, here’s where things get a bit dicey for them. While Mahomes is back, starting left tackle Josh Simmons, their blindside blocker, is a huge question mark. He’s been out since midway through training camp with a back ailment, and Reid conceded there’s a “good chance” they’ll be without him. Losing your starting left tackle, especially with a guy like Mahomes who likes to extend plays, that’s a serious problem right out of the gate.
The safety position is a bit of a mixed bag too. Chamarri Conner, who’s been sidelined all preseason with a knee issue, would be “a stretch” for the game. On the flip side, veteran Alohi Gilman, who was scratched before their second preseason game against the Seahawks with back pain, “was out there practicing and doing his thing. He’ll be ready to go, I think.” Reid didn’t even address the status of Ashton Gillotte, who reportedly ruptured his plantar fascia, although the team was apparently hopeful he’d be back. So, one safety in, one out, and another one a total mystery. Not ideal depth for a season opener.
The Chiefs kick off their season on “Monday Night Football” against the Denver Broncos. We’ll get official injury reports on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. How Simmons’ absence impacts that offensive line is going to be the biggest thing to watch. They need to figure that out fast, especially with Mahomes taking snaps after such a wild recovery.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Arrowhead Pride.
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