Chiefs Announcer’s Strong Message to Roger Goodell After Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid Questioned NFL Schedule

The Kansas City Chiefs are no strangers to high-stakes football. But this December, their battle isn’t just on the field. Frustration over the NFL’s scheduling decisions is reaching new heights. After Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid raised concerns, Chiefs announcer Mitch Holthus decided enough was enough and directed a sharp critique at Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Holthus minced no words speaking on The Drive with Carrington Harrison, describing the scheduling crunch as ‘maniacal.’ He highlighted the 92-hour turnaround between the Texans and Steelers games, emphasizing how it impacts not just preparation but also personal time. “You just dive in and go in; it’s less than 92 hours from the end of the Houston game to the start [of] the Pittsburgh game.” The response was sparked by a simple question from Harrison.

“How do you cram all the information that you need to when you have, you know, 30% less time to do it than you would for a usual game? And you still got your own holiday stuff with your own family,” Harrison asked to conclude the interaction. However, the response, on the contrary, fueled the debate about the NFL’s scheduling strategy. “There ain’t nothing happening before that [the game] with family,” Mitch said, adding, “I can’t tell you how many shows I’ve done today, and I’m sitting here with half a voice.”

Holthus’s criticism isn’t just about the Chiefs. Holthus pointed out that other teams face similar challenges, with playoff-contending squads forced to endure what feels like an endurance test. “The league has to talk about this,” Holthus insisted, raising concerns about the balance between entertainment and player well-being.

The Chiefs aren’t alone. Teams like the Ravens and Texans are also navigating this brutal stretch, but the intensity of Kansas City’s schedule magnifies the stakes. With playoff implications looming large, the Chiefs must balance preparation with preservation.

Mahomes and Reid balance optimism and reality

This year, four teams, including Kansas City, face three games in just 11 days. Unlike other sports, football’s physical toll amplifies these challenges, leaving players scrambling for recovery. Mitch Holthus has been particularly vocal, calling the situation ‘indescribable.‘ And the sentiment is shared by other players and staff, who echo concerns about fairness and safety.

Mahomes and Reid have also spoken out, albeit in their signature calm style. “It’s not great for your body,” Mahomes admitted, describing the strain but reinforcing his commitment to adapt. “But at the end of the day, it’s your job, your profession; you have to come to work and do it.” Coach Reid echoed this sentiment, focusing on keeping the team steady, one game at a time.

“The main thing is you get guys ready for the game. Give them a chance to get ready for the game,” Reid said earlier. During a media interaction before the Steelers game, the Chiefs’ seasoned HC kept things cryptic when asked about the three games in an 11-day stretch by Rob Collins of FOX4 Kansas City.

Reid simply said, “Oh, that’s a tough question, I mean… I’ll let you figure that one out. Or you can my bill.” Reid’s cryptic response made sure he steered clear of any penalty from the NFL while delivering the message he wanted to deliver. However, the Chiefs’ frustrations underscore a larger issue plaguing the NFL: an overstuffed December calendar. And Reid’s leadership becomes pivotal during such a stretch. The Chiefs’ success this season hinges on staying resilient in the face of this grueling test.

The NFL needs to reevaluate its priorities. While December games offer thrilling moments, they must consider the physical and emotional toll on players. As Holthus said, “The league has to talk about this.” Until then, teams like the Chiefs will keep pushing through, one game—and one recovery session—at a time.