Chiefs to Start Carson Wentz in Week 18 of the NFL Season

With the team having already secured a first-round bye in the playoffs, Reid opted to sideline Mahomes to avoid any risk to the franchise’s star player. Backup quarterback Carson Wentz will lead the offense on Sunday (January 5).

The Chiefs clinched their 15th win of the NFL season in a Christmas Day (December 25) victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking the best regular-season record in franchise history with just one loss.

Riding a six-game winning streak, the team’s starters will have over three weeks of rest before their playoff debut. Despite the extended break, Reid is confident in his decision to rest his key players.

“I’ve been in this position before, so I’m not too concerned about it,” Reid said. “This gives other players an opportunity to grow, and you can utilize everyone. The main thing is to ensure we stay sharp in all areas during this game and in the weeks ahead. We want to remain mentally and physically sharp, and it’s our responsibility to manage that effectively.”

The Game

While this divisional matchup may hold little significance for the Chiefs, it’s a crucial game for the Broncos. A win for Denver would secure the seventh seed in the AFC and a spot in the playoffs. If they lose, the Broncos would need the New York Jets to beat the Miami Dolphins and the Pittsburgh Steelers to defeat the Cincinnati Bengals to sneak into the postseason. Denver hasn’t made the playoffs in eight years.

Carson Wentz will make his first start for the Chiefs. So far this season, he has appeared in just two games—against the San Francisco 49ers and the Cleveland Browns—completing only two passes for 20 yards and a single first down.

“I’m preparing to go out there, win, and perform well with this offense,” Wentz said. “I’m very confident in my ability to play at a high level. I’m looking forward to getting out on the field this weekend and having some fun while competing.”

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