Charlie Riedel / Associated Press
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes remains on the NFL’s concussion protocol, but is said to have cleared “big strides”.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Tuesday that there is “hope and optimism” for Mahomes’ status. He is expected to train with the team on Wednesday.
The 2018 NFL MVP has been diagnosed with a concussion and is also dealing with a foot injury sustained in Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns.
“He was hit in the back of the neck and it kind of took his breath away and everything with that,” said Chiefs coach Andy Reid told reporters Domigo. “He’s doing really well now, which is very positive when we look at it. He approved all the deals he needed to be approved, so we’ll see where he goes from here.”
Oddsmakers currently expect Mahomes to play against Bills. The Chiefs remain the Super Bowl favorites and opened as three-point favorites over Buffalo.
Chad Henne spelled Mahomes after he left with the concussion, completing six of eight passes for 68 yards and an interception. Henne helped the Chiefs to clear the Browns by running 13 yards in a 3 to 14 play and then completed a pass to Tyreek Hill on the 4th and 1st.
If Mahomes failed in the protocol in the days leading up to the game, the Chiefs would become a significant underdog to repeat as AFC champions. While Henne was generally well in relief, Mahomes is the best and most important player in football; it would be an irreplaceable absence.