Analyst Tony Romo interpreted that sequence as a sign of mistrust, sparking speculation about the team’s chemistry. Kelce, however, quickly shut down the doubts after the game: “He’s our fearless leader (Patrick Mahomes), the most competitive person I know. We follow him because he leads us to victory.”
The pressure of a short week
In comments reported by Essentiallysports, Patrick Mahomes admitted the team faces a tough stretch. “We have to start stacking wins, but it won’t be easy. With a short week and a Thanksgiving game, we need to be ready to compete.” The quarterback recalled growing up attending Cowboys games with his father, and said playing on this holiday motivates him to shine under the spotlight.
The showdown against Dallas, set for November 27, is decisive for both sides. The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, enter with a 6-5 record and must win to stay alive in the playoff race, while the Cowboys aim to strengthen their position in the NFC.
An injury report that raises concern
The physical outlook for Kansas City is far from ideal. Tight end Noah Gray is sidelined with a concussion, and guard Trey Smith is dealing with ankle sprains that will keep him out. Still, Patrick Mahomes is listed as a full participant despite a groin issue. Running back Isiah Pacheco returned to practice after missing three games with a knee injury, and receivers Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, along with linebacker Leo Chenal, are expected to be available.
Patrick Mahomes says he hopes to join the NFL tradition of biting into a turducken following a win on Thanksgiving 😅
“I’m thinking of the turducken man, John Madden — that to me is the coolest thing… to be able to be a part of that, I think that would be a special moment.” pic.twitter.com/pQ8DOP4VVQ
— KC Sports Network (@KCSportsNetwork) November 25, 2025
The Cowboys also have their own issues. George Pickens, KaVontae Turpin, Osa Odighizuwa, and Jadeveon Clowney are all nursing injuries that could affect their defensive performance.
The Chiefs-Cowboys clash promises to be one of the week’s most compelling matchups. Patrick Mahomes is determined to reaffirm his leadership after internal doubts and prove that, despite injuries and pressure, he remains the driving force behind Kansas City’s push for another Super Bowl run. His warning before the game underscores the urgency of a team that needs immediate wins to stay among the NFL elite.
