Jan 18, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) is interviewed after defeating the Houston Texans in a 2025 AFC divisional round game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

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Is Patrick Mahomes Playing Today Against The Bills? All About The Chiefs QB’s Availability For the AFC Championship Game

Mahomes' status for Chiefs vs. Bills game tonight.

Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen have turned their head-to-head matchups into one of the NFL’s greatest quarterback rivalries, often compared to the Brady-Manning era. With eight meetings since 2020, including three in the playoffs, every clash carries the weight of legacies in the making. Mahomes dominates postseason moments, while Allen has excelled in the regular season, including a Week 11 win this year.

As they meet again at Arrowhead Stadium, with a Super Bowl berth on the line, the question looms: Is Patrick Mahomes available for tonight’s game against Buffalo?

Is Patrick Mahomes Playing Today For The Chiefs vs. Bills?

Yes, Patrick Mahomes will be available for the Chiefs vs Bills match tonight. Patrick Mahomes, listed on the Chiefs’ injury report due to an ankle issue, participated fully in practice this week. Despite the concern, he was a key player in Kansas City’s divisional round win against the Houston Texans, recording 177 passing yards, one touchdown, and zero interceptions. Reports indicate he is expected to play against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Championship Game at Arrowhead Stadium.

"I know how the Bills can win. When they sack Patrick Mahomes, just touch him, don't throw him down too hard, you might get a penalty."

— @RobGronkowski | @UpAndAdamsShow pic.twitter.com/3hhCLU5ZJp
— Chiefs Receipts (@ChiefsReceipts) January 22, 2025

The Chiefs have dealt with a series of injuries this season, but heading into this game, the team appears healthier than ever. Head coach Andy Reid confirmed that players on the injury report, including Mahomes, offensive linemen Mike Caliendo and Jawaan Taylor, and cornerback Jaylen Watson, all fully participated in practice sessions. Mecole Hardman remains the only notable absence due to a lingering knee injury.

Why Is Patrick Mahomes Key To The Chiefs?

Mahomes is the cornerstone of Kansas City’s offense. Known for his ability to extend plays, manipulate the pocket, and deliver under pressure, he is critical to the team’s success. This season, he played in all 16 regular-season games despite dealing with injuries. His leadership and consistency have made him one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks.

In the divisional round against the Texans, Mahomes showcased his ability to control the game even when faced with challenges. Against the Bills, he will face a team that handed the Chiefs their only regular-season loss this year. Buffalo’s defense has been effective at limiting turnovers, which will add pressure on Mahomes and his offense to maintain efficiency and avoid mistakes.

“The Bills and Josh Allen's relationship with the refs in the NFL is what NFL Twitter pretends the Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes’ relationship is.”@getnickwright explains: pic.twitter.com/AO4dAZrLuA
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) January 13, 2025

Turnovers will likely be a deciding factor in this matchup. Mahomes himself emphasized their importance, stating, “If you look at just the NFL in general, I think every team that’s won the turnover battle has won the football game in the playoffs so far this year.”

(Image: Imagn Images)

Is Patrick Mahomes playing tonight against the Bills?

Patrick Mahomes

Natasha Bose

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