Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes' recent ankle injury has sparked a crucial debate: should the team prioritize his long-term health over short-term gains? The injury, sustained against the Cleveland Browns, has been reported as a mild high-ankle sprain, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming games.

The timing couldn't be worse for the Chiefs, who are heading into the final stretch of the season and gearing up for the playoffs. Former NFL MVP Matt Ryan weighed in on the situation, suggesting that resting Mahomes until the playoffs might be the wisest course of action. Ryan emphasized the importance of having a healthy Mahomes for the postseason push, noting the difficulty of playing with ankle injuries.

Ryan acknowledged Mahomes' past resilience in playing through similar injuries, particularly during Super Bowl LVII. However, he highlighted the distinction between regular season games and playoff matches, suggesting that prioritizing Mahomes' health for the playoffs is paramount. Given the Chiefs' two-game lead in the AFC, resting Mahomes for a couple of games and potentially bringing him back for Week 18 to regain rhythm before the playoffs seems like a viable strategy.

Mahomes' history with ankle issues adds another layer of complexity to the decision. His previous experience with a high-ankle sprain during the 2023 playoffs and Super Bowl LVII demonstrates his toughness but also underscores the potential risks of rushing his return.

The Chiefs face a dilemma: play Mahomes in the upcoming games against the Houston Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers, potentially exacerbating his injury, or prioritize his long-term health and rest him, potentially jeopardizing their current standing. The decision will undoubtedly have significant implications for the Chiefs' playoff aspirations.