Chiefs Deliver Unfortunate Update for Patrick Mahomes Ahead of Cowboys Matchup

The Kansas City Chiefs are set to clash with the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on Thanksgiving Day. Coming off a dramatic 23-20 overtime victory over the AFC South-leading Indianapolis Colts, Andy Reid's squad holds a 6-5 record and is aiming to climb back into playoff contention in the AFC.

Injury Updates for the Chiefs

Kansas City has reported several injuries ahead of the game, including a significant loss on the offensive line. Guard Trey Smith exited early during the game against the Colts and was expected to miss Thursdays contest due to both high and low ankle sprains. On Wednesday, the Chiefs confirmed that three players will not play against Dallas: Trey Smith, tight end Noah Gray, and Chris Roland-Wallace.

Noah Gray remains sidelined with a concussion, while Smiths absence is a major setback for the Chiefs offensive line. Mike Caliendo stepped in for Smith against Indianapolis and is anticipated to start again in his place. According to Pro Football Focus, Smith has allowed just one sack this season and was a key acquisition for Kansas City, signing a four-year, $94 million contract that solidified his importance to the line.

Game Details

The Chiefs will meet the Cowboys, who have a 5-5-1 record, at 4:30 p.m. ET on CBS. Fans are eagerly anticipating the matchup, which could play a pivotal role in both teams playoff aspirations.

This coverage was first published by Athlon Sports on November 26, 2025, in their NFL section.

Analysis: Kansas City Chiefs' Playoff Hopes & Injury Concerns Ahead of Dallas Showdown

The Kansas City Chiefs enter their Thanksgiving Day matchup against the Dallas Cowboys with a critical need for a victory. Having secured a hard-fought 23-20 overtime win over the Indianapolis Colts, the Chiefs are currently 6-5, aiming to push for a playoff spot in the competitive AFC. However, their path to a postseason berth is complicated by key injuries that could affect their performance against the Cowboys.

One of the biggest setbacks for Kansas City is the absence of offensive guard Trey Smith, who is sidelined with both high and low ankle sprains. His injury significantly impacts the Chiefs' offensive line, which has already been dealing with struggles this season. Smith's reliability as a protector of quarterback Patrick Mahomes cannot be overstated. Stepping in for Smith, Mike Caliendo will again take the starting role, but this move may create additional pressure on Kansas City's offensive schemes, particularly in a high-stakes game like this one.

Additionally, tight end Noah Gray remains out due to a concussion, further depleting the Chiefs' roster. While Gray's absence may not be as impactful as Smith's, it still limits the Chiefs' offensive options, especially in the red zone where his presence could have been valuable.

The upcoming game is crucial not only for the Chiefs but for the Cowboys as well. With both teams holding records that leave little room for error, the outcome of this game could have a lasting impact on their respective playoff hopes. The Chiefs will need to overcome their injury woes and find a way to execute effectively if they are to keep their postseason dreams alive.

Sources:

• Chiefs Announce Bad News for Patrick Mahomes Before Cowboys Game