Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid unexpectedly relocated the team‘s training session indoors on Thursday, raising questions beyond the cited weather concerns. Although St. Joseph experienced calm skies with no rain or wind, Reid’s decision appeared motivated by a desire to protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes from external distractions amid growing team difficulties. This move halted an open-air practice session and limited media and fan access to the players’ preparations.
Now in his 26th year as a head coach, the 66-year-old Reid exercised his authority to limit outside exposure, focusing instead on addressing deeper issues related to the Chiefs’ sluggish start during training camp. The franchise is seeking to bounce back after the disappointment of losing Super Bowl LIX, investing heavily to reinforce their roster but encountering early struggles in team chemistry and execution.
Coaching Staff Highlight Team Communication Problems
Observers at practice noted troubling signs, particularly from the Kansas City first-team offense which failed to complete six of its last eight red zone attempts during 11-on-11 drills. Communication errors have hindered route timing, with wide receiver Xavier Worthy miscalculating the depth on a pair of corner routes, while Marquez Valdes-Scantling dropped a catchable touchdown pass.
Bit of a strange day at training camp,
wrote Pete Sweeney of Arrowhead Pride.
Plans to go inside changed, and the team practiced outside with no fans in attendance.
—Pete Sweeney, Arrowhead Pride
Reid’s decision to shift practices indoors was about more than controlling optics; it sent a clear message that the coaching staff prioritizes protecting the team’s focus and privately working through fundamental flaws rather than facing public scrutiny.
Questioning Patrick Mahomes’ Early Camp Performance
Patrick Mahomes, normally known for his accuracy and confidence, has displayed rare inconsistency during these early sessions. Team insiders revealed that Mahomes completed only 17 out of his last 35 throws in red zone drills, and he has not managed three consecutive completions during full-speed team reps since the previous weekend. This uncharacteristic performance has fueled concerns about his timing and connection with receivers.
They’re usually way ahead of the curve by Day 5,
said NFL Network’s James Palmer.
You’re seeing overthrows, hesitation, and second guesses. That’s not Mahomes.
—James Palmer, NFL Network
Though it remains early in the offseason and should not prompt alarm, Mahomes’ issues suggest challenges deeper than typical rust. The lack of timing and receiver coordination is drawing focused attention from Reid and his staff, emphasizing the need for rapid improvement.
Looking Ahead to the Season and Key Rivalries
With the regular season opener just weeks away on September 5 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, against AFC West rival Los Angeles Chargers, the Chiefs face urgent work to regain rhythm. Mahomes and Kansas City are pursuing their third Super Bowl victory in four seasons, alongside a 10th straight AFC West division title to stay ahead of title contenders including the Chargers, Denver Broncos, and Las Vegas Raiders.
Reid’s indoor training move reflects the pressing nature of these goals, showing a commitment to addressing errors quietly while preserving the team’s chance to peak at the right moment.