Will the Chiefs’ offensive burden once again fall on Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce? This question looms large as the team navigates injury setbacks and roster adjustments. When Hollywood Brown faced a collarbone injury during the first preseason game, Mahomes likely felt a wave of frustration: Not this again.
The 2024 season was anticipated to be a fresh start for the Chiefs, especially after Mahomes and Kelce propelled the offense last year. Despite their stellar performances, both stars experienced statistical declines that sparked skepticism among fans and analysts alike.
Mahomes endured a physically taxing season, suffering the second-highest number of sacks in his career, while also grappling with a personal high in interceptions. Kelce acknowledged the previous year was “pretty taxing,” hinting at the immense pressure they faced. As the Chiefs limped into the playoffs with a mere four wins in their final eight games, critics sharpened their pitchforks.
With Brown’s injury, Mahomes had every reason to think: Not again. The uncertainty surrounding Mahomes and Kelce’s ability to rise above last season’s challenges hangs in the air.
Brown, a new addition with 313 career receptions, is expected to miss key training sessions and the start of the regular season. This setback is particularly concerning for a rookie expected to fill a vital role. While Mahomes and the team are not starting from scratch, they must reassess their strategy.
“We lose a little bit of that veteran-type receiver in that room,” Mahomes remarked to reporters. “We have other guys that can replace him a little bit, but to have that much talent and a good understanding of what I want… hopefully, we’re getting him back sooner rather than later.”
He emphasized the need to cultivate the younger receivers, pushing them to improve daily. Receiver Rashee Rice emerged as a standout during Kansas City’s postseason journey and could play a significant role in 2024. However, Rice is currently facing felony charges related to a multi-car accident, complicating his future with the team.
Kansas City also drafted Xavier Worthy, a speedy receiver expected to catch Mahomes’ deep passes. With Brown sidelined, Worthy’s moment to shine has arrived. Last weekend against the Lions, Worthy showcased his potential, catching three passes for 62 yards and a touchdown, including a 39-yard reception from Mahomes.
However, it is essential to remember that preseason performances can be misleading. The Lions’ secondary has had its share of struggles, making it too early to determine if Worthy can consistently handle a significant role in the offense.
Worthy is not the only rookie stepping into a pivotal position; Kingsley Suamataia is set to take over at left tackle. His performance against Detroit was promising, with Coach Andy Reid noting his solid pass protection and effective run blocking.
The success of the Chiefs’ offense in 2024 now hinges on the development of these rookies. If they falter, the start of the season could mirror the struggles of 2023, when Mahomes faced challenges protecting his blindside and the team struggled to attack effectively.
Despite the presence of Kelce and Rice, who were instrumental in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory, the team cannot solely rely on their contributions. The 2023 season’s success was also attributed to a strong defense. With key defensive players like La’Jarius Sneed and Willie Gay no longer with the team, Mahomes will need to lean heavily on his rookies.
If the rookies struggle to adapt, Mahomes will be left hoping for a swift recovery from Brown. If Brown’s injury hampers his ability to integrate into the offense, Mahomes and Kelce might face another challenging season ahead.
For now, the Chiefs have time to prepare their rookies and explore ways to elevate Rice’s role. The hope remains that they can avoid repeating last year’s struggles and keep their offensive momentum intact.
