Will Patrick Mahomes play in Week 16 against the Texans: Full participation hints positive news for the Chiefs Kingdom

Mahomes on track for Week 16 start vs. Texans?

Patrick Mahomes looks ready to play in Saturday’s game against the Houston Texans. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback practiced fully on both Tuesday and Wednesday despite suffering a mild high-ankle sprain in last Sunday’s win over the Cleveland Browns. Unless there’s a setback, Mahomes is expected to start.

This season, Mahomes has passed for 3,348 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His leadership has been key to the Chiefs’ 13-1 record, which secures them a playoff spot and puts them in contention for the AFC’s top seed.

Is Mahomes playing this weekend?

All signs point to yes. Mahomes participated in back-to-back full practices, signaling that his ankle responded well to treatment. When asked about his status, Mahomes said: “You have to [try] to play. That’s the reason you play this game, to push to play. I’m not going to put our team in a bad position.”

Andy Reid described Mahomes as “day-to-day” but noted, “If he can go, he’ll go. If he can’t, then he can’t. Keep it simple.”

Latest Patrick Mahomes injury update

Mahomes injured his ankle late in the Week 15 game against the Browns after being tackled awkwardly. The team initially feared a multi-week absence, but X-rays showed no structural damage. The injury was classified as a mild high-ankle sprain.

#Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes (ankle) was a full participant at practice today. pic.twitter.com/w8LSGFsbmy
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) December 17, 2024

Mahomes practiced without visible limitations and reported that the sprain wasn’t as severe as the one he suffered in 2023 during the Chiefs’ playoff run. Back then, he played through the injury, leading Kansas City to a Super Bowl victory.

What is the timeline for high-ankle sprain recovery?

Recovery from a mild high-ankle sprain typically takes 2-4 weeks. Mahomes’ quick return to practice suggests he’s aiming for the shorter end of that timeline. During the 2023 playoffs, he returned to the field just days after a similar injury, heavy ankle taping in sight.

While the Chiefs might consider resting Mahomes, their schedule kind of compensates things. They play three games in 11 days, including games with the Texans and Steelers. Clinching the AFC’s No. 1 seed this week would allow Mahomes and the team additional rest before the playoffs.

What’s at stake in Week 16?

The Chiefs need two more wins to secure the AFC’s top seed. This not only guarantees home-field advantage but also provides a crucial first-round bye. Facing Houston, Mahomes availability will be key, to say the very least.

Patrick Mahomes working yet again, see if he’s another Full participant when injury report is released. pic.twitter.com/mwdr0Wokkf
— Harold R. Kuntz (@HaroldRKuntz3) December 18, 2024

If Mahomes can’t play, Carson Wentz will step in as QB. However, with the stakes so high, Mahomes seems determined to take the field. Whether that decision affects his long-term health remains a concern, but for now, he looks ready to lead the Chiefs again.

Image: Imagn

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Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
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