The NFL world is undoubtedly full of high stakes. Here, injuries can flip a team’s fortunes overnight. And the status of a player like Patrick Mahomes? It can create a frenzy both on and off the field. With the Chiefs‘ playoff hopes tightly wound around their superstar QB, all eyes are glued to Mahomes. Especially as he recuperates from a high-ankle sprain. Can he take the field against the Texans?

Patrick Mahomes’ recent ankle injury had Chiefs fans holding their breath! After the QB was hurt late in a comfortable win against the Cleveland Browns. Now, with the injury surfacing after that game, Reid is faced with a delicate balancing act. He confirmed Mahomes is going to try and practice on a lighter day to assess how his ankle feels. “If he can go, he’ll go. If he can’t, then he can’t. It’s that simple. That’s how we’ll roll.” So, no pressure on Mahomes, right? But let’s remember, this is a player who thrives on proving he can play through pain—something he’s had to do before.

The subtext here? A lot of folks are eyeing head coach Andy Reid. After all, he opted to keep Mahomes on the field when the team had a multi-touchdown lead. “All they had to do was give the ball to the running backs and kill the clock.“ But instead, the Chiefs ended up allowing Mahomes to potentially jeopardize his health with unnecessary plays.

However, Mahomes himself is optimistic, stating that his ankle has responded well to treatment. “It’s a short amount of time, I thought we did a good job yesterday and after the game as well.” His competitive spirit shines through as he adds that he plans to push it in practice. “If I feel like I can play and go out there and win a football game, I will.” This mentality has been a hallmark of his career and certainly makes for thrilling moments. But it also raises a significant question: Should the Chiefs be more cautious?

Navigating Mahomes’ return: To play or not to play?

The Chiefs find themselves in a precarious situation. With a demanding schedule featuring three games in just 11 days, including a crucial Christmas showdown against the Steelers, the coaching staff must weigh Mahomes’ immediate health against the need for victories. Football culture often espouses a next man up mentality, but the Chiefs aren’t just any team—Mahomes is the crux of their offensive strategy.

Looking ahead, while Mahomes is eager to play, it’s better to rush back. Especially if that risks aggravating his injury! Ian Rapoport noted that Mahomes’ condition could limit his mobility. Something that might hinder performance despite his capability. However, Mahomes has always been known to challenge the boundaries of what’s possible. A warrior mentality.

The Chiefs’ decision-makers, including Reid, hold the critical power of deciding whether Mahomes takes the field this Saturday. Or not. If they’re wise—and they’ve usually been wise—they might want to protect their star from himself. The Chiefs signed Carson Wentz to step in if needed. And leveraging Wentz’s talents may provide enough coverage. All the while giving Mahomes the necessary time to heal!