Is Patrick Mahomes playing today? Chiefs QB's status revealed for Week 18 clash vs. Broncos

Modified Jan 05, 2025 13:19 GMT

Houston Texans v Kansas City Chiefs - Source: Getty — Is Patrick Mahomes playing today? Chiefs QB's status revealed for Week 18 clash vs. Broncos - Image Source: Getty

Patrick Mahomes is in the spotlight for the Kansas City Chiefs ahead of their Week 18 clash against the Denver Broncos. Since the Chiefs have already qualified for the playoffs and earned the top seed in the AFC, fans want to know if Mahomes will suit up for Sunday's game.

Is Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes playing today vs. Broncos?

NFL: Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes - Source: Imagn

Patrick Mahomes will not play against the Broncos on Sunday. The Chiefs quarterback will get a rest for their regular-season finale in Week 18.

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Moreover, Mahomes is dealing with an ankle injury and will get some recovery time before the playoffs begin. He was a limited participant in practice throughout the week. Since the Chiefs (15-1) have the No. 1 seed in the AFC, they will get a bye in the Wild-Card Round and get an automatic qualification into the Divisional Round.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid confirmed that Mahomes, along with a few other of his starters will get a rest for Sunday's game. Instead, Reid will use the backups to close out the regular season.

In Mahomes' absence, Carson Wentz will start as the Chiefs' quarterback against Denver. Sunday's matchup will also mark Wentz's first start for the franchise since signing for Kansas City in the offseason.

It makes sense for the Chiefs to rest Mahomes for the clash against the Broncos since it is a high-risk, low-reward game. Kansas City is chasing a three-peat of Super Bowls and Mahomes is integral to the plans for the historic achievement.

How has Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes performed this season?

Mahomes had a relatively slow start to the season but didn't take long to get into his rhythm. The quarterback completed 392 of 581 passes for 3,928 yards with 26 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He has also rushed for 307 yards and two touchdowns across 16 games.

This season was the first time in seven years that Mahomes failed to get a Pro Bowl selection. Nonetheless, since Mahomes will be getting a break against the Broncos, he can sit back and watch Wentz in action on Sunday.

Here's a look at the TV schedule and live stream details for the Chiefs-Broncos Week 18 clash.