Kansas City Chiefs to Rest Starters, Including Patrick Mahomes, in Preseason Opener

Kansas City, MO, August 13, 2026 —

The Kansas City Chiefs have announced that several key starters, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes, will not participate in the team’s upcoming preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams.

This decision is a common strategy for many NFL teams during the preseason, aiming to protect veteran players from potential injuries during low-stakes exhibition games. Head coach Andy Reid has often utilized this approach to give younger players and those competing for roster spots an extended opportunity to showcase their abilities.

Mahomes, a multiple-time MVP and Super Bowl champion, will likely be joined on the sidelines by other significant contributors as the Chiefs evaluate their depth and prepare for the upcoming regular season. The specific group of players who will be held out was not fully detailed, but the intention is to rest the majority of the established starters.

The preseason serves as a crucial period for teams to finalize their rosters, with coaches assessing performance in game situations. For the Chiefs, this game against the Rams will provide valuable film and experience for players further down the depth chart, as well as those looking to make an impact.

The exact number of starters who will be resting was not provided. The Rams will also be using the game as an opportunity to evaluate their own roster. The Chiefs’ approach reflects a broader trend in the NFL where team health and readiness for the regular season are prioritized over extensive participation by star players in preseason contests.

Story summarized from the original created by Google News on news.google.com, see more information here.