Injuries come with the territory, but overcoming them? That’s what separates champions. The Chiefs’ grit faces a challenge against the Saints after Rashee Rice collided with Patrick Mahomes, leaving the receiver injured and Mahomes frustrated. Just as things were clicking with a 4-0 start, coach Andy Reid dropped another blow: another key player out.
Charles Omenihu’s road to recovery has been a long one, and while the Kansas City Chiefs are eager to get him back on the field, it’s still going to take some time. Coach Andy Reid confirmed that it’ll be “a little bit here” before Omenihu’s practice window opens. Coming off a torn ACL suffered in the AFC Championship Game, the defensive end was always expected to miss the early part of the season. But it’s talked about more now because the Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes are aiming for a 3-peat.
#Chiefs HC Andy Reid says it’ll be “a little bit here” before DE Charles Omenihu’s practice window is opened.
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) October 3, 2024
Omenihu himself has been dropping hints, recently tweeting that he’s “at the home stretch” of his rehab. Sounds promising, right? Still, patience is key. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported back in August that Omenihu wouldn’t be back until November. And Reid seems to agree.
While the defensive end may be eyeing the Raiders matchup in Week 8, Reid’s cautious approach suggests fans may have to wait until after the bye week to see him back in action. Sure, this is a blow to the Chiefs’ defense. But so far, so good. And you wouldn’t want a team in form to go about pressing the panic button just yet.
Be it with Omenihu’s injury or with Rice’s. Even though the latter sounds huge. Patrick Mahomes and his offense have been making things happen. And Showtime is happy with the backup corps so far.
The real test for Patrick Mahomes in Rashee Rice’s absence?
“When I saw the replay, I felt like s— that I hit Rashee,” Patrick Mahomes admitted, reflecting on the collision with Rashee Rice that left the young receiver sidelined. Losing Rice, especially after a strong 4-0 start, stings. But in football, there’s no time to dwell. Mahomes, with his “next man up” mentality, knows the show must go on.
Worthy’s been rising to the occasion, filling Rice’s shoes nicely. After that 54-yard touchdown against the Chargers, Mahomes didn’t hold back praise. “He’s a great football player. He’s getting more comfortable within the offense.” That trust is critical as the Chiefs shift gears without Rice.
But here’s the kicker: Coach Reid isn’t about to let Mahomes lock in solely on Worthy. “We have guys here with experience… we can utilize,” Reid pointed out. That’s a smart move. The Chiefs have a talented roster, and it’s time for those other receivers to make some noise. It’s like having a full playbook but only running one or two plays. Spread it out, keep the defense guessing, and let the magic happen!
So, what do you think the Chiefs will look like without Rice? Will Worthy truly be able to step up and fill in the void as Patrick Mahomes is expecting him to do? Time will bring in a more definitive answer to that. Till then, drop down your thoughts in the comments.
