Chiefs defeat Jets 35-12 as Mahomes returns after elbow injury
Patrick Mahomes led Kansas City to a 35-12 win over New York, throwing for 242 yards and two touchdowns despite an elbow injury, while the Jets were shut out after falling behind 14-12 at halftime.
Kansas City held off a late comeback by the New York Jets to win 35-12 on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who left the first half with a strained elbow after a strip-sack by Jets defender David Bailey, returned in the second half and threw for 242 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Kenneth Walker contributed 102 rushing yards and a touchdown, finishing with 143 yards from scrimmage.
The Chiefs' defense forced five sacks on Jets quarterback Geno Smith and kept the visitors out of the end zone, limiting New York to 165 passing yards and 229 total yards of offense. The Jets, missing wide receiver Garrett Wilson with a concussion, relied on running backs Braelon Allen and Breece Hall and rookie Omar Cooper Jr., but were unable to score.
"If I’m able to play, I’m going to play. That’s part of the game," Mahomes said after receiving treatment from trainer Julie Frymyer.
Chiefs coach Andy Reid praised his team's effort after a previous loss in Denver.
"My hat goes off to the guys," Reid said.
Jets coach Aaron Glenn acknowledged the team's shortcomings.
"It is disappointing, and I told our players that. All we can do is go back to work," Glenn said.
Kicker Jason Sanders made four field goals in the first half for Kansas City, while kicker Harrison Butker missed two attempts, prompting speculation about his future. The Chiefs have recently added former All-Pro kicker Justin Tucker to the practice squad.
Both teams will play next Sunday, with the Jets hosting Buffalo and the Chiefs traveling to Atlanta.