Limited practice for Mahomes
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes remained in the NFL’s concussion protocol Wednesday, but practiced in a limited capacity, raising hopes that the reigning Super Bowl MVPcan play in Sunday’s AFC title game against the Bills.
The Chiefs typically breeze through their midweek practice with little contact before ramping things up with their longest workout Thursday, and coach Andy Reid said afterward that fit perfectly with what Mahomes was able to do.
“He looked good,” Reid said. “... We’re just going to follow this protocol as close as we possibly can.”
There are five steps in the league’s returnto-play protocol: rest until signs and symptoms return to baseline clearance to begin cardio; stretching and balance training with medical oversight; an increase in exercises that includes monitored strength training; the resumption of non-contact football activities; and finally, the player is cleared by team physicians and passes an independent neurological exam, at which point he is cleared to practice and play.
Reid didn’t specify which step Mahomes was in Wednesday, but the work he described coincides with the fourth step. If all goes well, that could mean the Chiefs quarterback is cleared to participate more fully in practice Thursday or Friday.
Mahomes was hurt in the third quarter of last weekend’s 22-17 win over the Browns when he was tackled around the neck while keeping the ball on a QB option.
Chad Henne finished the game and would be the starter if Mahomeswas unable to play against the Bills.
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