The Kansas City Chiefs will have quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the starting lineup for Super Bowl 57 against the Eagles. But how will his high ankle sprain impact him?
Patrick Mahomes commented on his injury over the weekend, saying that much of his concern is mental, rather than physical. Mahomes has done all he can to prepare himself for the big game with an extra week of rest. Odds are, he’s had the necessary recovery time.
Mahomes was able to play in the AFC Championship Game against the Cincinnati Bengals with few setbacks. The only issue appeared to be when he tried to stop himself on the sidelines after a late hit by defender Joseph Assai. Assuming he’s not placed in that position again, the Chiefs should be able to squeeze every ounce of talent out of the 27-year-old.
Chiefs latest injury update on Patrick Mahomes
Mahomes himself said the majority of his concern was mental, rather than physical.
As for the Kansas City coaching staff, Andy Reid has already stated that he expects Mahomes to play. Reid has kept his gameplan rather close to the vest otherwise. Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy was asked if the play calls would change due to Mahomes injury, and he admitted that there would be some minor differences:
“I think it’s a mix of both,” Bieniemy said. “But, we want to make sure that everything we’re putting in, that we can bring it into next week’s game. And so, you guys know Pat (Mahomes). Pat’s not going to shy away from anything. And it’s our job more than anything to protect him from himself. And so, our job is to make sure that we’re putting together the right game plan that’s going to help us to be at our best. But on top of that, making sure that we’re looking out for Pat in the meantime. So, we’re not going to change anything. We know that Pat will be at his best when his best is needed. You guys know him, he’s a competitor. He’s not going to shy away from anything.”
Bieniemy is right about one thing — Mahomes won’t shy away from the moment. Healthy or not, he will give it his all.