Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes played through an ankle concern, leading his team to a 27-19 win against the Houston Texans on Saturday. Despite speculation about his availability earlier in the week, Mahomes participated fully in Thursday's practice and was ultimately cleared to play. He delivered a solid performance, throwing for 260 yards and notably scoring the game's first touchdown on a 15-yard rushing play, the longest of his career. This impressive run, which saw him maintain balance after nearly tripping, prompted broadcaster Noah Eagle to question the severity of the supposed ankle issue. Mahomes' performance came after he was briefly sidelined during the Chiefs' Week 15 victory over the Cleveland Browns due to the injury. This isn't Mahomes' first experience with ankle problems. He suffered a high ankle sprain during the 2022 playoffs against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The victory improved the Chiefs' record to 14-1, further solidifying their playoff position after securing the AFC West title for the ninth consecutive season.

Patrick Mahomes (15) of the Kansas City Chiefs evades Danielle Hunter (55) of the Houston Texans during the first quarter at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on December 21, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (Jason Hanna/Getty Images)

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws a pass during the first half of the game against the Houston Texans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., on December 21, 2024. (Jay Biggerstaff/Imagn Images)

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes prepares for a game against the Denver Broncos on November 10, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)