Chiefs Check-in: Patrick Mahomes puts leadership skills on display

Patrick Mahomes isn’t off to the best statistical start to a season of his career, but there’s more to it than merely Mahomes struggling to throw the ball. Isiah Pacheco is starting to come into his own in his sophomore year, and the Chiefs’ secondary is preparing to face one of the best wide receivers in the NFL.

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Check out those stories and more in today’s edition of the Chiefs check-in newsletter for the morning of Friday, October 6:

Mahomes comments on early season struggles

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Mahomes told the media that he hasn’t played very well to start the season and that he needs to continue to improve. Being the consummate professional that Mahomes is, he’s obviously putting the blame on himself and biting the bullet for his struggling wide receiver group.

Mahomes praises his teammates for performance vs. Jets

Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

Mahomes gave a shoutout to Isiah Pacheco and his offensive line for their contributions to the Chiefs’ Week 4 victory over the Jets.

Pacheco is elevating his game in his second season

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Andy Reid recognized the effort and consistency Pacheco has brought to start the season.

Chiefs vs. Vikings preview

AP Photo-Reed Hoffmann

Our Ed Easton Jr. recaps the Chiefs’ victory over the Jets and previews their Week 5 matchup with the Vikings on the Chiefs Wire Podcast.

Chiefs face monumental task in covering Justin Jefferson

Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Edwards speaks on the challenge the Chiefs will face in defending Justin Jefferson.

Around the AFC West

Denver Broncos

• Starting running back Javonte Williams returned to practice on Thursday after suffering a quad injury this past week.

Las Vegas Raiders

• The Raiders could be without starters Jimmy Garoppolo and Davante Adams this week.

Los Angeles Chargers

• Chargers Wire breaks down what went wrong with J.C. Jackson’s time in L.A.

Around the NFL

• The Bears secured their first win of the season after beating the Commanders 40-20 on Thursday Night Football.
• Hall of Famer Dick Butkus has passed away at the age of 80.
• The Arizona Cardinals signed former Chiefs’ running back Damien Williams to their practice squad.
• The Bears have released quarterback Nathan Peterman.