In a press conference on Thursday, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid outlined his plan for the team's upcoming preseason game against the Detroit Lions. With an ambitious strategy in mind, Reid aims to give his starters a significant amount of playing time to help them find their rhythm for the forthcoming NFL season.

Reid revealed that the first string players, known as "the ones," will take the field for the entire first half of the game. This means that key figures like star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce will be actively participating in the exhibition match for a total of 30 minutes. It's an approach that Reid has employed consistently in previous preseason games, emphasizing the importance of providing his starters with ample gameplay before the regular season kicks off.

However, there is an inherent risk involved in allowing star players to feature for such an extended period. Any injuries sustained during a preseason game could potentially impact their performance during the regular season. The threat of injuries during the preseason is a genuine concern, evident in recent incidents like Minnesota Vikings' first-round quarterback J.J. McCarthy tearing his meniscus in their initial exhibition game last week. McCarthy's injury will sideline him for the entire 2024 season, underscoring the potential consequences of preseason mishaps.

While Reid acknowledges these risks, he also takes precautionary measures by occasionally adjusting his playing time strategy. In previous seasons, the Chiefs' starters played the entire first quarter of their second preseason game, while in this year's preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars, they only played for a single drive on August 10. As Reid weighs the benefits of providing his starters with valuable playing time against the potential hazards, he adapts his approach accordingly.

Whether Reid ultimately opts for the full first half for his starters against the Lions or chooses to limit their time on the field slightly, it is crucial to trust the judgment of a seasoned NFL coach with an impressive track record. With two consecutive Super Bowl victories under his belt, Reid is now aiming for a three-peat, and his emphasis on preseason preparation plays a vital role in achieving this goal.

As the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for their second preseason game, fans will eagerly watch the team's star players in action. Reid's measured approach to balancing playing time for starters demonstrates his commitment to striking the right balance between preseason readiness and the need to protect his top assets.