The Chiefs are gearing up for an epic Black Friday clash against the Raiders at Arrowhead. Not only is this a historic first for an NFL Black Friday game, but it’s also a golden opportunity for Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce to etch their names deeper into franchise history. With Mahomes just one touchdown pass away from surpassing Len Dawson’s record and Kelce aiming to dethrone Tony Gonzalez’s mark for most receiving TDs, all eyes are on the dynamic duo. But injury concerns loom large for the defending champs.

RB Isiah Pacheco, who fractured his fibula in Week 2, is officially activated and could make his much-anticipated return. “He would’ve played three weeks ago if he had his choice,” said head coach Andy Reid. However, Reid has exercised caution, ensuring Pacheco is fully ready. Patrick Mahomes weighed in, saying, “He wants to play every snap, but he understands the bigger picture.” Alongside Pacheco, defensive lineman Charles Omenihu, recovering from a knee issue, is also set to make a comeback, bolstering Kansas City’s defense.

The Chiefs’ injury report, however, reveals lingering concerns. LB Cam Jones missed practice due to illness, while kicker Spencer Shrader’s hamstring injury ruled him out, prompting the team to re-sign kicker Matthew Wright. Reid has been “taking it day by day,” emphasizing player readiness.

On the Raiders’ side, quarterback Gardner Minshew is out with a broken collarbone, leaving rookie Aidan O’Connell at the helm. Additionally, cornerbacks Jakorian Bennett and Nate Hobbs remain sidelined, further weakening Las Vegas’ defense.

With both teams nursing key injuries, Friday’s game promises drama, risks, and potentially franchise-defining moments. If Mahomes and Kelce deliver in this high-stakes showdown, their legendary statuses in Kansas City might reach untouchable heights.

Mahomes & Kelce eye franchise history vs Raiders

When the Las Vegas Raiders visit Arrowhead Stadium, the Chiefs’ QB-TE duo will have the chance to break iconic records. Mahomes, already the Chiefs’ all-time leader in completions and passing yards, is one touchdown away from surpassing Hall of Famer Len Dawson’s record of 237 career touchdown passes. Meanwhile, Kelce can overtake another Hall of Famer, Tony Gonzalez, as the Chiefs’ leader in touchdown receptions, needing just one more to hit 77.

The anticipation for the NFL’s first-ever Black Friday game couldn’t be higher, especially after the Chiefs’ tight 27-20 win over the Raiders in October. That game saw Mahomes shine with 262 yards and two touchdowns, while Kelce delivered a standout performance with 90 receiving yards and a touchdown. Fans are dreaming of a perfect moment where Mahomes connects with Kelce for a touchdown, simultaneously breaking both records on the same play.

With the Chiefs sitting at a dominant 10-1 record, Mahomes and Kelce remain pivotal in their pursuit of an unprecedented Super Bowl three-peat. Yet, the duo knows success requires relentless focus. As Mahomes said after a recent close win, “You want to have some blowouts, but knowing how to attack those moments matters in the playoffs.” Chiefs Kingdom will hope Friday’s matchup cements both stars’ legacies while setting the tone for their stretch run to greatness.