Patrick Mahomes will sit out preseason game against the Rams

In the United States, the Kansas City Chiefs' head coach Andy Reid announced that quarterback Patrick Mahomes will not participate in the team's first preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams. This decision was confirmed during a press conference held on Thursday, August 13, 2026. Reid had previously indicated that Mahomes would likely sit out the game, but he provided a more definitive statement regarding Mahomes's status during the recent press conference. The decision to keep Mahomes on the bench marks a significant change from the Chiefs' usual approach to preseason games, where starting players typically see some action.

The rationale behind this decision stems from Mahomes's recovery from a torn ACL, which has necessitated a more cautious approach to his playing time. In past seasons, the Chiefs have often allowed their star players to gain valuable game experience during the preseason. However, given Mahomes's injury history, the coaching staff has opted to prioritize his long-term health and readiness for the regular season over short-term game experience.

As a result of Mahomes's absence, the Chiefs will rely on backup quarterbacks Justin Fields, Garrett Nussmeier, and Chris Oladokun to handle the quarterback duties during the game against the Rams. This situation presents an opportunity for these players to showcase their skills and potentially secure a more prominent role within the team. The coaching staff will be closely monitoring their performance to assess their readiness for the upcoming regular season.

Overall, the decision to rest Mahomes reflects a broader trend in the NFL, where teams are increasingly cautious with their star players during the preseason. The focus is shifting towards ensuring that key players are fully healthy and prepared for the rigors of the regular season, rather than risking injury in exhibition games. As the preseason progresses, it remains to be seen whether Mahomes will participate in the remaining games or if the Chiefs will continue to take a conservative approach with their star quarterback.