Chiefs Rest Patrick Mahomes, Turn to Carson Wentz in Week 18 Matchup Against Broncos

The Kansas City Chiefs took a conservative approach to their Week 18 game against the Denver Broncos, opting to rest several key starters, including star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. With the No. 1 seed in the AFC and a first-round playoff bye already secured, the Chiefs prioritized health and preparation for their postseason run.

Mahomes, who has been battling a mild high ankle sprain since Week 15, sat out to take advantage of two full weeks of rest. The injury, sustained during a win against the Cleveland Browns, hasn’t drastically impacted his play but presents a risk the Chiefs weren’t willing to take.

In Mahomes’ absence, the Chiefs turned to veteran backup quarterback Carson Wentz to lead the team. Wentz, best known for his pivotal role in the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2017-2018 Super Bowl-winning season, brings a wealth of experience. That year, Wentz guided the Eagles to an impressive 11-2 record before a season-ending knee injury forced him to watch from the sidelines as his team captured the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

For Wentz, this game represented an opportunity to showcase his abilities with a talented roster. While the Chiefs were chasing their 16th win of the season, Wentz’s role was more about managing the game and keeping the offense steady. The Chiefs’ decision to play him highlights their confidence in his ability to step in when needed.

Kansas City’s coaching staff has emphasized the importance of maintaining rhythm while mitigating unnecessary risks ahead of the postseason. “We’ve been in this position before, and the focus is on being at our best when it matters most,” head coach Andy Reid said earlier this week.

Resting Mahomes is part of a larger strategy to ensure the team is healthy for what they hope will be another deep playoff run. The Chiefs have consistently been contenders under Mahomes’ leadership, and his presence will be critical as they aim for their third Super Bowl appearance in the last five seasons.

As the playoffs approach, the Chiefs’ focus shifts to maintaining their dominance in the AFC while navigating the health challenges that come with a grueling NFL season. With Mahomes getting extra recovery time and Wentz providing a capable safety net, Kansas City remains poised for another championship push.