Chiefs’ Andy Reid: Patrick Mahomes likely to start vs. Texans

Dec 15, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. (51) and linebacker Devin Bush (30) rush Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) during the second half at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes “most likely” will start Saturday’s game against the visiting Houston Texans, coach Andy Reid said on Thursday.

Mahomes was a full participant in practice on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday despite nursing an ankle sprain he suffered during the fourth quarter of last Sunday’s 21-7 victory over the Cleveland Browns.

“We’ll most likely end up playing him,” Reid said on Thursday.

Reid added that he liked what he saw from Mahomes during practice.

“He did look good out there,” Reid said. “He moved around pretty good. So, you’re always looking to make sure they can get out the way, not to further any harm to them. So that’s what I look at.

“I’ve been through it with him before and he amazed me every time he does it. The guy, he’s been so mentally tough and just puts it into a mindset that he has going into it (from) where he was a few days ago.”

Mahomes and the Chiefs (13-1) can clinch the No. 1 seed in the AFC with a win over the Texans (9-5) and a loss or tie by the Buffalo Bills (11-3) against the visiting New England Patriots (3-11).

Carson Wentz is the No. 2 quarterback for the Chiefs and would get his 94th career start if Mahomes sits. Wentz played the final two possessions last week.