As the NFL continues to stretch its schedule to accommodate more games, some players are voicing their displeasure over the league’s decision to schedule matches on Christmas Day. Patrick Mahomes, the star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, is one of those speaking out, and rightfully so. The league’s choice to have teams like the Chiefs play on this sacred holiday undermines family values and shows a lack of respect for the players and their commitments outside the game.
Mahomes and the Chiefs are scheduled to play the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas Day, December 25, 2024, a game that will make them one of four teams working on a day traditionally reserved for family, rest, and reflection. This comes on the heels of a grueling stretch where Kansas City will play three games in just 11 days, including matchups with the Cleveland Browns on December 15 and the Houston Texans on December 21. It’s a brutal schedule that shows how little regard the NFL has for its players’ well-being.
The decision to add Wednesday games and schedule matches on Christmas Day is, in Mahomes’ own words, “not a good feeling.” The Chiefs quarterback, known for his calm demeanor and professionalism, did not mince words when discussing the physical toll such a schedule imposes. “You never want to play this amount of games in this short of time. It’s not great for your body,” Mahomes said. While he acknowledged that football is his job, he’s right to point out that the NFL is asking far too much of its athletes.
This is not the first time the Chiefs have had to work on Christmas. In 2023, Mahomes and his teammates faced the Las Vegas Raiders in a Christmas Day game. While Mahomes took it in stride, the fact that the NFL has now scheduled back-to-back Christmas games for the Chiefs speaks volumes about the league’s priorities. The schedule forces these players to sacrifice valuable family time, as well as their physical and mental health.
Despite the heavy load, Mahomes remains a consummate professional, understanding that his job requires him to “come to work and do it.” But just because he accepts the reality doesn’t mean it’s a fair one. With his body pushed to the limit, Mahomes emphasizes the importance of preparing properly for the grueling stretch. “All you can do is focus on the game,” he explained. “I try to prepare my body all year long for this stretch.”
Kansas City’s head coach, Andy Reid, added his perspective, acknowledging that managing such a tight schedule is a “unique situation.” He noted that while the team practices hard, they are also careful to dial it back when necessary to avoid further injury.
Mahomes’ professionalism and commitment to his faith provide a rare perspective in the world of professional sports. “I feel like I’ve grown in my faith these last few years,” he shared, explaining that his focus is on glorifying God, rather than simply winning or losing. This strong faith-based approach is something many fans admire about Mahomes, as it reminds us all of the values that should come first, especially on a day like Christmas.
The NFL’s decision to prioritize television ratings and revenue over the well-being of its players is a clear message that the league values business over family and tradition. For Mahomes and countless others in the NFL, Christmas Day should be a time for family, faith, and rest—not one more game to add to an already overcrowded schedule. It’s time for the NFL to reconsider its priorities and put the players’ well-being—and respect for traditions—above the bottom line.
