Patrick Mahomes will be rested for the final game of the season with Travis Kelce’s status not yet confirmed with him just 16 yards away from another 1,000 yard season.
Kelce has a record eight consecutive seasons of over 1,000 receiving yards – the most ever from a tight end in NFL history with him currently sitting on 984 yards. However, with the Kansas City Chiefs already securing their playoff spot and having the third-seed confirmed to them, their final game of the regular season will mean very little to them, with the decision already being made to rest Mahomes.
Usually, Kelce is a player who would be rested too. However, it appears that he is still in with a chance of playing, with head coach Andy Reid yet to confirm his position despite admitting Mahomes will not play.
On being asked about players possibly reaching their milestones in the upcoming game, Reid stated it “depends on what the milestone is”. He left the door ajar by referring to the conversation as “one-sided”, signaling that these goals could be hit in Week 18.
Blaine Gabbert will start the finale against the Los Angeles Chargers, with Mahomes not being activated with him set to rest before the playoffs begin next week.
While Reid didn’t share plans for other starters, some may play for personal milestones. For instance, Travis Kelce is just 16 yards away from his eighth consecutive 1,000-yard season.
As well as Kelce, the Chiefs best defensive player, pass-rusher Chris Jones could also earn a $1.25 million bonus if he achieves 10 sacks this season – he’s currently on 9.5.
Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce have received scathing criticism from Kansas City Chiefs legend Dante Hall© Reach Publishing Services Limited
He did not yet confirm whether Jones will play, but he did not practice on Wednesday, along with other key starters for the team in Isiah Pacheco (running back), Rashee Rice (wide receiver) and L’Jarius Sneed (cornerback).
It has become a regular move for certain coaches to choose to rest their starters in the season finale, even with a secure playoff position.
Last season, the Chargers played their starters and suffered several injuries, including one to receiver Mike Williams that kept him out of the team’s playoff game. They lost their playoff opener the following week.
Reid isn’t taking any chances, especially with his star quarterback. Other teams may follow suit for Week 18.
