Will Chiefs rest starters against Broncos in finale? ‘If someone else is in that spot, then so be it’
Denver hosts Kansas City in Week 18 of NFL season with chance to clinch playoff berth
The Chiefs are likely to rest starters in their Week 18 matchup against the Broncos.
How will Denver adjust if Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes doesn’t play on Sunday afternoon at Empower Field at Mile High?
“I don’t know that it changes the game plan because the scheme is still the same,” coach Sean Payton said on a Monday teleconference call with local media. “I think you have to approach it like you’re seeing starters at these positions.”
Chiefs coach Andy Reid told Kansas City media on Monday he will not address starters until speaking with players. The Broncos and Chiefs return to practice Tuesday. However, NFL Network reported that Mahomes and others are expected to sit. Denver (9-7) is also considered a 9.5-point favorite over Kansas City (15-1), per ESPN Bet.
It sets up for backup quarterback Carson Wentz — the former No. 2 overall draft pick (Eagles, 2016) — to make his Chiefs starting debut since signing a one-year deal with the team this season. Wentz has not been a full-time NFL starter since 2021 (Colts).
“I’m one of his biggest fans,” Reid told Kansas City media on Monday. “I’ve liked what I’ve seen here. I’m glad I’ve had the opportunity to see him here. Selfishly, I’d like to keep him. But I don’t think that’s going to be possible. He should be starting in the league somewhere. … By his ability, and the way he goes about his business. He’s so structured and disciplined. His study habits and all those things are just top notch.”
The Broncos will clinch a playoff berth with a victory Sunday after consecutive road losses to the Chargers and Bengals. In Week 10, Denver was one blocked field goal away from beating Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium with starters in the game. The Broncos won’t alter their preparation regardless of who plays on Sunday.
The Chiefs have already clinched a first-round bye as the AFC’s top playoff seed. If the starters rest, they could have 24 days between meaningful games.
“I’ve been in this position before on the other side of it,” Payton said. “I think you’re looking at the scheme relative to the game plan. And then planning on seeing the player that you’re watching on film. If someone else is in that spot, then so be it.”