Jean Carniel/Reuters via Imagn Images

Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes Receives Good News on Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Oct 23, 2025 4:59 PM ET

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs earned their fourth win of the 2025 NFL season in Week 7, shutting out Pete Carroll and AFC West rival Las Vegas Raiders 31-0. For the first time this season, Mahomes had his full complement of receivers available, and he delivered, completing 26 of 35 passes for 286 yards and three touchdowns.

Rashee Rice missed the Chiefs’ first six games while serving a suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. In his return, he quickly became Mahomes’ top target, recording seven catches for 42 yards and two touchdowns. However, while Mahomes was already without left tackle Josh Simmons due to personal reasons, his other starting tackle was forced to leave the Week 7 game early.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15).Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Jawaan Taylor has been Mahomes’ starting right tackle since the 2023 season, playing a key role in the Chiefs’ most recent Super Bowl run. However, he has faced heavy criticism during his time in Kansas City, particularly for his penalty troubles. Since joining the team, Taylor has committed 43 penalties, including seven this season, the most in the league over that span.

However, over the past two games, Taylor has avoided penalties and hasn't allowed a sack, showing why the Chiefs invested in him with a four-year, $80 million contract. But as he was starting to pick up his play, Taylor left the Chiefs vs. Raiders game early due to a shoulder injury, leaving Mahomes without both starting tackles.

Fortunately for Mahomes, Taylor’s injury doesn’t appear to be serious, as he was a full participant in Thursday’s practice. However, Simmons remains away from the team, while running back Kareem Hunt and guard Trey Smith did not take part in the session.