Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was in the field of practice and worked on the initial attack to a limited extent on Thursday, but remains on the concussion protocol.
Coach Andy Reid specified that Mahomes is still in the contactless phase of the concussion protocol until further notice, leaving the situation of the Chiefs quarterback uncertain for the AFC Championship game on Sunday.
Normally, players who have not been released from the NFL’s concussion protocol are not allowed to wear helmets in training. In the part of Thursday’s practice open to the media, Mahomes held his helmet and watched from the side.
However, later in training, Mahomes put on a helmet and made plays with the initial attack, which included newcomer running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire. Edwards-Helaire lost the division playoff game last week due to hip and ankle injuries.
“Pat looked good outside,” said Reid. “He’s moving well. It feels good. It is only important that we follow the protocol and that is what we are doing. “
If Mahomes does not receive full medical clearance, Reid said the Chiefs would return to Chad Henne. Henne entered last week’s game in the third quarter, after Mahomes was helped off the field at the end of a running game option. Henne also started Week 17 with the bosses resting key personnel.
Wide receiver Sammy Watkins (calf) and cornerback Bashaud Breeland (concussion protocol) were also on the field of practice Thursday.
Running back Le’Veon Bell (knee) and cornerback Willie Gay (ankle) did not train, said Reid.