The Kansas City Chiefs continued their undefeated streak with a crucial 27-20 win over the Raiders in Week 8, though their victory came with some injury scares that could affect the road ahead. Chief among them, superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes had his ankle rolled up on—a concerning sight for any Chiefs fan. Fortunately, early reports indicate Mahomes will be fine, providing Kansas City a major sigh of relief as they eye another Super Bowl run.
Mahomes’ Injury Scare Raises Eyebrows
Though Mahomes was briefly shaken, the reigning Super Bowl MVP finished the game strong, completing 27 of 38 passes for 262 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. His quick recovery to lead the offense past their AFC West rivals underscored his resilience, and his postgame comments left little doubt that he’d be ready for Week 9 against the Buccaneers. But fans will remember that a similar ankle issue plagued Mahomes throughout last season’s playoff run. Despite the heroics that propelled Kansas City to victory over the Jaguars, Bengals, and Eagles, an unhampered Mahomes is clearly the Chiefs’ best chance at securing a three-peat.
#Chiefs HC Andy Reid said Nazeeh Johnson has a concussion and Jody Fortson hurt his right knee.
Confirmed that Patrick Mahomes got his ankle rolled up on but said "he's fine."
— Jordan Foote (@footenoted) October 27, 2024
Nazeeh Johnson and Jody Fortson Add to Chiefs’ Injury Woes
It wasn’t just Mahomes facing the injury report. Cornerback Nazeeh Johnson, stepping in after Jaylen Watson’s departure, was diagnosed with a concussion, putting his immediate availability in question. Meanwhile, tight end Jody Fortson, a reliable target, exited with a knee injury. While neither player’s role is as marquee as Mahomes’, each could impact Kansas City’s depth at key positions, especially as the regular season intensifies.
Chiefs Maintain Momentum with Mahomes-Kelce Connection
Tight end Travis Kelce also stepped up to remind the league why he’s Mahomes’ go-to. Kelce put on a clinic, tallying 10 receptions for 90 yards and a touchdown, a testament to his enduring playmaking abilities. Kelce’s dominant showing was all the more valuable given rookie sensation Brock Bowers’ presence on the field, a player many consider his heir apparent. But with Mahomes at the helm and Kelce in top form, the Chiefs proved they still rule the AFC West.
The Chiefs now look forward to Week 9’s matchup against the 5-2 Buccaneers with confidence, knowing that Mahomes’ health appears intact. As long as their MVP quarterback remains upright, Kansas City’s ambitions to secure a third consecutive Super Bowl title stay well within reach.
