Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes looked to be in fine form against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Playing in the Divisional Round Playoff, Mahomes led the Chiefs to a 16-point lead at the end of the first half. He had 1 passing touchdown and 1 rushing TD over the first 2 quarters.
But all hell broke loose in the 3rd quarter as Mahomes hit the ground running after a tackle from Browns outside linebacker Mack Wilson.
The 2018 Super Bowl MVP struggled to get up to his feet. He was forced off the field to get some medical attention. The Chiefs later confirmed that Mahomes would miss the final quarter with a concussion.
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Patrick Mahomes concussion update: Will the Chiefs QB return on Sunday?
Despite initial fears, Chiefs HC Andy Reid called for clam in the post-game presser saying he was optimistic about Mahomes’ speedy recovery.
But NFL insider Adam Schefter was quick to highlight the league’s 5-step concussion protocol, which Mahomes must pass to be eligible for Sunday’s Championship game against the Buffalo Bills.
He said, “They feel like he’ll be able to get through it. But you can’t say for sure when you’re talking about concussions and the protocols that have to be followed to get Patrick Mahomes back onto the field for the AFC Championship game against the Buffalo Bills.”
“I would say again, Wednesday, Thursday, you’ll get a real good sense that he’s in the clear at that point and that they can move ahead and begin plans and preparations as if he will be there.
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“As you mentioned, it is a 5-step process, he will need to be cleared by an independent neurologist. But assuming all that happens, I would think they’ll have a pretty good idea of that Wednesday or Thursday,” Schefter said on ESPN’s Get Up.
The Chiefs need their star quarterback fit and firing for Sunday’s do-or-die fixture at the Arrowhead. Chiefs TE Travis Kelce, WR Tyreek Hill, and RB Le’Veon Bell can thrive under an Eric Bieniemy-coached offense provided they have Mahomes calling the shots.
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Backup QB Chad Henne was the hero yesterday. However, the AFC Championship game is a whole different ballgame.
ALSO READ- WATCH: Patrick Mahomes Connects With Travis Kelce for Sensational Touchdown Against Browns