Mahomes commended the Chiefs for their efforts during the three-game stint. “It showed the toughness of the team,” he said. “I think we got better as the games went on. The guys, they’re mentally tough, and they’re physically tough, and we played some really good football teams, some hard-fought battles, and the guys came away with three wins.”

The tight schedule has led to a heavy injury report. Defensive tackle Mike Pennell left the game Wednesday with a hamstring injury, but returned to the game later. Running back Isaiah Pacheco suffered a rib injury and did not return to the game. Even before the game, Kansas City was without several key players: Cornerback Chamarri Conner had a concussion; defensive lineman Chris Jones had a calf injury; and offensive tackle D.J. Humphries was battling a lingering hamstring injury.

A number of players have been dealing with injuries. Mahomes suffered a high ankle sprain against Cleveland but played through it all week. Others included center Creed Humphrey, safety Justin Reid, wide receivers Nikko Remigio and Xavier Worthy, cornerback Joshua Williams, and tight end Peyton Hendershot.

The Chiefs are also bare in the cupboard at wide receiver. Rashee Rice missed most of the season with an LCL injury in October. His fellow pass-catchers Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore are also on injured reserve, along with tight ends Jody Fortson and Jared Wiley. Linebacker Jack Cochrane is also on IR. Kicker Harrison Butker returned to the lineup in December after starting the season on IR; his replacement, Spencer Shrader, is on IR with a hamstring injury.

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