Andy Reid Says Patrick Mahomes May Skip the Entire Preseason

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Friday that quarterback Patrick Mahomes is unlikely to play in the team's preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams next week, and that the two-time MVP could sit out all three exhibition games.

"There's a pretty good chance I don't play him," Reid said. "Percentages are leaning that way. I don't know if I will play him the second or third game — I don't know that — but percentages probably lean against doing that."

Mahomes had surgery in December to repair torn ligaments in his left knee. He has been ahead of schedule throughout his rehabilitation, taking part in the full offseason program and reporting to training camp on time. Late last month, Dallas-based surgeon Dr. Dan Cooper, who performed the procedure, cleared him to practice without restrictions.

Mahomes has said he is looking forward to taking his first real hit to feel fully back to football, and his competitive streak could yet persuade Reid to give him a handful of snaps in the second exhibition game, against Tampa Bay.

The Chiefs have other quarterbacks who need the work. Kansas City traded with the New York Jets for veteran Justin Fields to serve as the primary backup, and he could use game experience in the new offense. So could Garrett Nussmeier, the once-heralded LSU quarterback taken in the seventh round of the draft as a project.

"We've got new people ... behind (Mahomes) that need some work," Reid said. "The more reps they get, the better."

The Chiefs, who practice again Saturday before taking Sunday off, are missing a number of players to injuries. The latest is two-time Pro Bowl offensive guard Trey Smith, who was examined by a hip specialist as a precaution after discomfort this week. Reid downplayed the issue, saying "he's going to be OK."

None of the other injuries appear to be long-term. Defensive end Ashton Gillotte has a hamstring strain, linebacker Jeffrey Bassa a groin injury, linebacker Drue Tranquill back pain and wide receiver Xavier Worthy a shoulder issue, while defensive back L'Jarius Sneed is managing a knee problem and cornerback Mansoor Delane a shoulder injury.

Wide receiver Cyrus Allen, a fifth-round pick who had drawn attention in camp, returned to practice for the first time since bruising his shin Monday, though he was held out of contact drills.

"He did a good job when he was back in there, so that's a positive," Reid said.