In a recent press conference, Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton provided insights on how the recovery status of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is shaping his team's preparation for their upcoming Week 1 clash. Payton emphasized the importance of preparing for Mahomes at his best, regardless of his current injury situation.
Payton stated, "I'm going to probably say the same for Bo [Nix], you’ve seen enough things where he’s going to be 100 percent, and we’re preparing for him at his best. We know how talented he is, and I’m sure he’s attacked the rehab the way Bo has with completely different injuries. That’s kind of our approach to it." Nix, who is recovering from an ankle injury that sidelined him during the AFC Championship Game last season, is also a focal point in the Broncos' strategy.
While discussing the upcoming matchup, Payton reiterated his commitment to facing top-tier competition, rather than focusing solely on Mahomes and the Chiefs. He remarked, "We have to face him; I’ve answered that before. When I took this job, it wasn’t like I was looking for the division with Pat [Mahomes] and Andy [Reid]; the [Walton-Penner] ownership structure was the reason. Earlier or later, I don’t know. You have to be ready and prepare for what you know is his best." Payton acknowledged the multifaceted skills of Mahomes, including his ability to make plays both in the pocket and on the run.
Last season, Mahomes had a standout performance, finishing with 22 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions over 14 games, alongside 422 rushing yards and five touchdowns. However, his absence in the Week 17 matchup against the Broncos, which took place on Christmas night, allowed Denver to sweep the Chiefs in their two meetings last season.
Payton also highlighted the nuances of preparing for a division rival in Week 1, noting that teams often introduce new strategies and adjustments at the start of the season. He explained, "In Week 1, what I’d want to know is how do you prepare for or adjust to some of the changes if you’re Kansas City for [Offensive Coordinator] Davis [Webb] or if you’re Denver for the new adds. There’s always in Week 1, even though they’re a division opponent, there’s usually some wrinkles and things that teams want to do."
Mahomes' injury, which included a torn ACL and LCL sustained during the Chiefs' Week 15 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, has been a significant concern. The surgery performed by Dr. Dan Cooper, the Dallas Cowboys' team physician, has set Mahomes on a path to potentially return to action by September 14. As the Broncos prepare for this critical matchup, the uncertainty surrounding Mahomes' health adds an intriguing layer to their strategy.
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