Latest Chiefs Update Spells Bad News For QB Patrick Mahomes

Three starters for the Kansas City Chiefs did not practice on Thursday, raising concerns for the team's offense just four days before "Monday Night Football" at Arrowhead Stadium. Head coach Andy Reid confirmed that rookie left tackle Josh Simmons was absent due to a personal or family matter, right guard Trey Smith missed practice with back spasms, and running back Kareem Hunt was ruled out with a bone bruise in his knee.

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has demonstrated elite performance through the first seven games of the season, ranking fourth in the NFL with 1,800 passing yards, tied for fourth with 14 touchdowns, and third with a 77.7 QBR, while throwing only two interceptions. He has been sacked just 11 times, tied for the fifth-fewest among starting quarterbacks, and has maintained a 66.1% completion rate when protected by a clean pocket.

The absence of two starting offensive linemen and a key running back complicates the Chiefs' offensive strategy. Josh Simmons, the team's 2025 first-round pick and Mahomes' primary blind-side protector, has been away from the team for multiple weeks, with Jaylon Moore stepping in as his replacement. Trey Smith, a full-time starter who has logged over 400 snaps this season, is dealing with back spasms that occurred after a recent win, which could impact Mahomes' ability to operate in short and intermediate passing windows due to potential interior pressure.

Kareem Hunt, who has contributed 205 rushing yards, three touchdowns, and 55 receiving yards this season, serves as a vital check-down and pass-catching option. If he is limited or unavailable, running backs Isaiah Pacheco and Brashard Smith will need to take on increased roles in both snaps and targets, adding to the offensive challenges.