Just before the Kansas City Chiefs’ Week 6 Thursday night game against the Denver Broncos, punter Tommy Townsend appeared on the injury report with a knee injury, causing concerns among Chiefs fans. If Townsend couldn’t play, who would be the backup punter? Surprisingly, special teams coordinator Dave Toub revealed that star quarterback Patrick Mahomes is the Chiefs’ backup punter and is ready to step in if needed.
“We had a plan, and believe it or not, 15 is our backup punter,” Toub mentioned this week. “He can do it. He shows me all the time. He can do it all, that guy. It’s unbelievable.”
Fortunately, the Chiefs’ high-powered offense, which ranks fourth in the league by yards per game, doesn’t require punting often. Townsend averages just three punts per game, ranking 26th in the NFL in terms of punting frequency.
While Mahomes is renowned for his passing skills, he takes pride in his secondary duty as the backup punter. Although he has thrown for 1,593 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions through six games, Mahomes has yet to make his first career punt. The Chiefs will face the rival Los Angeles Chargers next, prompting questions about when Mahomes might make his punting debut. In response to inquiries, Mahomes tweeted, “Waiting for the right moment! Patience is key.”
