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Patrick Mahomes to sit preseason opener, Justin Fields starts

8/13/2026

48 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Andy Reid announced Patrick Mahomes will not play in the preseason opener vs Los Angeles Rams Saturday at 3 p.m.
Backup quarterback Justin Fields will start, with rookie Garrett Nussmeier and Chris Oladokun rotating later.
Mahomes, who tore his ACL and LCL in December 2025, completed training camp but will sit out.
Reid said he is unsure whether Mahomes will play in the second or third games, preferring reps for younger QBs.

History

Historical Context

In 2011, the Patriots finished 13-3 and reached Super Bowl XLVI, a season that underscored the league’s attention to quarterback health. Today, Andy Reid’s decision to bench injured Patrick Mahomes for Kansas City mirrors that precedent, reflecting a growing trend of preserving elite QBs for long-term success.

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Story summary

Andy Reid announced Patrick Mahomes will not play in the preseason opener vs Los Angeles Rams Saturday at 3 p.m.
Backup quarterback Justin Fields will start, with rookie Garrett Nussmeier and Chris Oladokun rotating later.
Mahomes, who tore his ACL and LCL in December 2025, completed training camp but will sit out.
Reid said he is unsure whether Mahomes will play in the second or third games, preferring reps for younger QBs.

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