Chiefs Facing Patrick Mahomes Decision Ahead of Jets Game

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Chiefs Facing Patrick Mahomes Decision Ahead of Jets Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Tate Mosher | Last updated Nov 3, 2026 12:27 PM ET

After an unexpected 5-0 start, the Kansas City Chiefs have stumbled somewhat in the past couple weeks of the NFL season. Following two straight losses on the road, they are now 5-2 and second place in the AFC West.

The biggest reason for these losses is that star running back Kenneth Walker III has slowed down considerably. He was the best RB in the NFL through the first six weeks of the year, but has produced just 105 rushing yards on 35 carries since.

His performance in goal-to-go situations has also taken a hit. Walker has not scored a touchdown since Week 6. As Sam McDowell of The Kansas City Star pointed out, the Chiefs have run the ball inside the 5-yard line 13 times this season but converted on just two of them.

The Chiefs have run the ball 13 times from inside the 5-yard line and scored on just 2 of them. It’s the worst percentage in the NFL.

It’s also the argument for the sneak: https://t.co/abaZEZKirN
— Sam McDowell (@SamMcDowell11) November 3, 2026

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has played the full season following a torn ACL last December. He is getting healthier each week, and it might be time for the team to trust him a little more on the goal line.

His pocket escapability gives Kansas City an edge in those situations, if they opt to put the ball in his hands. With the way they run the ball in the red zone, the coaches might want to consider having Mahomes try to make a play more often.

Against a strong defense in the Denver Broncos in Week 8, Mahomes had one of his best games of the season. He completed 30-of-41 passes for 321 yards and three touchdowns, making for a 120.1 passer rating.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Passer rating also favors Mahomes across his full season numbers. At 99.7, that is the highest figure he has had since 2022. He is being more efficient as well, throwing only four interceptions in seven games.

Mahomes and the Chiefs’ next chance to fix their red zone scheme will come at home against the New York Jets in Week 9. That game kicks off Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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