The Kansas City Chiefs are set to face the Denver Broncos in Week 18 after a wholesome season and a 15-1 record, but fans are far more excited to see Patrick Mahomes close out the regular season in style.
With the AFC’s No. 1 seed already locked up, the Chiefs are resting their superstar quarterback; the question is, will Mahomes bring his best forward for the finale or take a rest as they prepare for the playoffs?
Patrick Mahomes’ Appearance Doubtful in Week 18
Update: Mahomes is officially inactive for the final game of the regular season.
Head coach Andy Reid confirmed that backup quarterback Mahomes will miss the last match. According to PFN’s 2024 NFL QB Rankings, Mahomes, who holds a Grade B with an overall score of 85, has an ankle issue. He also affirmed that the team would be looking up to Carson Wentz to start in Mahomes’ place.
“It wasn’t a hard decision,” Reid said (via NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport). “I’ve been through it before. It gives the other guys an opportunity to grow.”
This move is consistent with Reid’s approach in similar situations during his coaching tenure, prioritizing player health and development over a potentially inconsequential regular-season game.
The Chiefs’ 15-1 record and top seed mean there’s no playoff seeding at stake in this matchup. Reid has a history of giving his starters the day off in scenarios like this. Fans may recall similar moves in the past, including Mahomes’ absence in a meaningless Week 17 game during his rookie season when Alex Smith was still the starter. This strategy allows Kansas City to focus on its ultimate goal of enjoying a deeper postseason run.
Meanwhile, this game is more than just a formality for Wentz as it’s a chance for him to come to the forefront and show his abilities. The nine-year veteran has yet to make a start for the Chiefs since joining the team, and this opportunity could be important, especially after the flash of brilliance he showed last season against the San Francisco 49ers. Wentz will lead the offense against a Denver team still clinging to slim playoff hopes.
The Chiefs are also expected to rest other key players, including tight end Travis Kelce and defensive lineman Chris Jones, ensuring they’re at peak performance when the playoffs begin. This approach benefits players in nursing minor injuries and gives younger backups a chance to gain valuable reps.
While fans may miss seeing Mahomes on the field, the Chiefs’ strategy is a calculated move aimed at preserving their roster for the postseason. “It gives the other guys an opportunity to grow,” Reid emphasized, highlighting the broader purpose behind this decision.
Denver, on the other hand, will likely view this as a golden opportunity. With the Broncos’ playoff hopes on the line, they’ll look to capitalize on the absence of Kansas City’s biggest stars. However, the Chiefs’ depth has proven that they can take sail the ship in past seasons, and their backups will aim to keep the team’s momentum alive heading into the playoffs.