Patrick Mahomes is expected to play for the Kansas City Chiefs against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 10 after medical evaluations found that his elbow injury was minor. The quarterback suffered the injury during Kansas City’s 35-12 win over the New York Jets, prompting the team to seek several medical opinions before clearing him to return to the lineup.
The Chiefs’ concern was understandable given Mahomes’ importance to the team and the scale of his contract. Rather than relying solely on its own medical staff, Kansas City arranged additional evaluations, including consultations with baseball specialists.
## Doctors Find a Small UCL Sprain
The Chiefs had doctors review scans of Mahomes’ elbow and sought second and third opinions from specialists connected to the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers. The evaluations found a “very small sprain” of the ulnar collateral ligament, or UCL.
The medical opinions indicated that Mahomes could continue playing without a major issue. The decision to consult baseball doctors reflected the Chiefs’ view that specialists in baseball may have greater experience with elbow injuries, which are common in the sport.
With a high-profile quarterback at the center of the evaluation, the team wanted experienced specialists to examine the scans and help determine whether the injury posed a more significant risk. The additional consultations provided further assessment before Mahomes was cleared for the Falcons game.
## Mahomes Practiced Fully During the Week
Despite the sprain, Mahomes completed a full week of practice and made all of his throws. That offered an encouraging sign as the Chiefs prepared for their Week 10 matchup. He is expected to be available against Atlanta, although the elbow remains sore.
The soreness could be a factor during Sunday’s game and in the weeks ahead. However, the available medical evaluations did not identify a more serious problem, and Mahomes’ practice participation suggested he was able to handle the demands of his usual preparation.
Kansas City’s decision to bring in multiple specialists underscores how carefully the team is managing the situation. The Chiefs wanted to confirm that the UCL sprain would not worsen if Mahomes continued playing, especially given his central role in the offense.
For now, the outlook is positive: Mahomes has been cleared to play, and the injury has been described as a small sprain. The Chiefs will nevertheless have reason to monitor his elbow, particularly if soreness persists or affects his throwing during the game.
The 35-12 victory over the Jets was decisive, but Mahomes’ injury became a concern in the days afterward. The extra medical reviews helped the Chiefs assess the issue before moving forward with their plans for Atlanta.
