The Kansas City Chiefs held their weekly team press conference ahead of their Week 15 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. Head Coach Andy Reid along with players Patrick Mahomes and Nick Bolton spoke. Reid provided injury updates as well as news regarding the Chiefs’ newest addition. Mahomes and Bolton reflected on their respective sides of the ball during their game against the Chargers and looked ahead to the challenge the Browns will present.
With the regular season winding down, and playoffs approaching, the Chiefs are focused on tightening things up and addressing any lingering issues.
Kansas City Chiefs Injury Updates
Head Coach Andy Reid began his presser by providing updates on several injured players, including D.J. Humphries, Harrison Butker, and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown. Humphries is still dealing with a hamstring injury, and will not practice today. He remains day-to-day accord to Reid, who also emphasized that the team would monitor his recovery closely, citing “variables” that may affect his availability for Sunday.
Next was Harrison Butker, the Chiefs’ starting kicker, who returned to practice on Wednesday. Reid said, “We’re going to see how he does. He has a chance.” Meaning as of now it is not guaranteed that he will return to play against the Browns, but he has officially been designated to return from injured reserve putting him on track to return in the next 21 days.
Then there was the news of Wide Receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown who has not played a single snap for the Chiefs this regular season because his injury occurred during the preseason. Brown is currently progressing but remains unready for game action. Reid said, “He’s getting close. He says he feels great.” However, Brown still requires clearance from medical professionals before he’s allowed to return to the field.
Kansas City Chiefs Defensive Challenges
Reid turned his attention to the Browns and the glaring defensive threat posed by Browns Defensive End Myles Garrett, calling him “a future Hall of Famer.” Garrett’s ability to cause havoc for opposing offenses is well-documented However, with the Chiefs currently dealing with so many issues on their offense, it’s going to be vital for the Chiefs to have a plan for slowing him down. “We have to play well against him, and we have the capability to do that,” Reid added.
Patrick Mahomes echoed Reid’s sentiment, mentioning Garrett’s versatility and skill. “He’s just really good. He’s pretty much good at everything,” Mahomes said. Mahomes stressed the importance of quick decision-making and finding ways to exploit openings downfield.
Nick Bolton didn’t speak on Garett but instead spoke on their defense and its performance in their most recent game. He credited Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s focus on discipline and adjustments against the Chargers. “Coach Spags was real big on one series at a time, Bolton said. We did that in the first half, kinda letting some plays get away from us in the third quarter but we ended up forcing a field goal at the end when we needed to. I think the group is slowly getting better slowly on the incline.”
Player Improvements and Additions
Patrick Mahomes also gave credit to rookie Wide Receiver Xavier Worthy for his continued growth and improved play over the last few weeks. Mahomes said, “He’s showing his versatility by running underneath, catching the ball, and gaining yards after catch.” Worthy’s development is going to be a vital component for the Chiefs moving forward as they still lack a true No. 1 receiver with Rashee Rice out.
Reid also discussed the team’s newest practice squad addition Cornerback Steve Nelson. “You won’t see him this week,” Reid said, explaining that Nelson needs time to “get his feet under him.” The Chiefs plan to have Nelson slowly integrate himself into the defense.
Bolton also spoke on the impact of Defensive End Charles Omenihu’s return to the defensive line, particularly alongside Chris Jones. “He and Chris together cause havoc for shorter quarterbacks,” Bolton said. The duo’s ability has already borne fruit, as the Chiefs have been able to accumulate games with multiple sacks since he’s returned which is something they were unable to do for the most part since he’s been out. Now the defensive front not only can cause unrelenting pressure but also get to the quarterback much more consistently.
Final Thoughts
The Kansas City Chiefs remain focused on shoring up key areas of their team as they continue to prepare to face the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. With injuries, roster adjustments and player development continue to be their top priorities over the final month of the regular season.
Reid, Mahomes, and Bolton also stressed improved execution moving forward, as the Chiefs aim to position themselves before the playoffs arrive. Their ability to continue to adapt and overcome the challenges ahead of them will be crucial in determining how this week and the remainder of the season will play out.
