In a lighthearted moment during a press conference, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid joked about his quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ injury, claiming that Mahomes has the “loosest ankles in America.” The comment came after Mahomes had suffered an ankle injury during a recent game, which had led to speculation about whether he would be able to continue playing. Reid, known for his affable and humorous personality, was quick to reassure reporters that despite the injury, Mahomes was determined to remain on the field.
“Look, if I would’ve taken him out, he probably would’ve fought me,” Reid said with a smile. This remark, of course, was a playful exaggeration, but it spoke volumes about Mahomes’ competitive nature and his refusal to let an injury hinder his ability to play. In many ways, Reid’s comment also highlighted the unique relationship between the two: a coach who understands his quarterback’s relentless drive and a quarterback who has earned the trust of his coach through his resiliency and remarkable performances on the field.
The comment about Mahomes’ “loose ankles” was a bit of humor to describe a player who has become known for his incredible athleticism and ability to make off-the-cuff plays, often while under pressure or in compromised positions. Mahomes has built his reputation on his ability to throw from any angle, including while moving, twisting, and contorting his body—skills that often require a great deal of flexibility in his lower body. While the remark was lighthearted, it also hinted at the unusual nature of Mahomes’ playing style. His ability to recover from injuries and perform at a high level, regardless of the circumstances, has earned him the admiration of fans, teammates, and coaches alike.
In fact, Mahomes’ resilience is something Reid has praised numerous times throughout their tenure together. Mahomes is no stranger to playing through pain. During the 2019 playoffs, he famously overcame an injury to lead the Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory, cementing his legacy as a quarterback who thrives in high-pressure situations. Reid’s comment that Mahomes would “fight” to stay in the game is not an exaggeration of the player’s determination, but rather a reflection of his unyielding desire to stay on the field, regardless of the injury.
This characteristic is one of the reasons Mahomes has quickly become one of the most beloved and respected figures in the NFL. His toughness, combined with his playmaking ability, has set him apart from many of his peers. Despite the physical challenges that come with playing such a demanding position, Mahomes has shown time and time again that he is willing to push through pain and discomfort in order to help his team win.
Of course, Reid and the Chiefs medical staff are no strangers to balancing player safety with competitiveness. While Mahomes’ drive to play through injury is a testament to his leadership and willpower, the team also knows the importance of ensuring that their star quarterback is fully healthy. The Chiefs’ medical team is undoubtedly keeping a close eye on Mahomes’ injury and will make the necessary decisions to protect his long-term health, even if it means taking him out of a game temporarily.
In the end, Reid’s joke about Mahomes’ “loosest ankles” serves as a fun reminder of the quarterback’s rare combination of toughness, athleticism, and determination—traits that have made him one of the most exciting players in the NFL. As for Mahomes, he’s proven time and time again that nothing, not even an injury, will keep him off the field for long.
