Chiefs vs Cowboys Predictions Updated After Key Injury News for Thanksgiving

The Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys meet on Thanksgiving at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with kickoff set for 4:30 p.m. EST on November 27, 2025. Updated Chiefs vs Cowboys predictions shifted Thursday morning after new injury information surfaced for Patrick Mahomes and several Kansas City playmakers.

The Chiefs upgraded Mahomes, Rashee Rice, and Xavier Worthy to full participation by midweek, easing concerns about their availability. However, Kansas City also ruled out tight end Noah Gray and guard Trey Smith, creating fresh questions about the team’s depth as the holiday matchup approaches.

Injury Updates Reshape Chiefs vs Cowboys Predictions

Mahomes entered the week managing a groin issue, while Rice and Worthy were initially limited with hamstring and ankle concerns. By Wednesday, all three trended upward, and team officials confirmed Rice would be active for Thanksgiving. This places him as Kansas City’s projected top receiver entering the game.

The Chiefs’ passing rhythm has leaned heavily on Rice throughout the season. His availability gives Mahomes a reliable target group that also includes Travis Kelce and rookie receiver Worthy. The return of multiple starters provides stability for Kansas City’s offense ahead of a national spotlight game.

The setback for Kansas City comes on the offensive line and tight end depth. Gray’s absence removes a key secondary option in the passing game, while Smith’s injury reduces interior protection. According to reporting from the Associated Press, both players were ruled out early Wednesday.

Dallas enters Thanksgiving with improved momentum after recent wins. Dak Prescott’s chemistry with CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens has strengthened over the past month, and the Cowboys have relied on power runs from Javonte Williams to stay competitive in tight games.

Analysts note that the Cowboys’ defensive revival will be central to their chances. The unit has allowed fewer explosive plays since midseason adjustments and will face a major test against Mahomes and his full receiving trio.

Cowboys vs Chiefs Thanksgiving

How the Updated Outlook Affects Thursday’s Matchup

With Mahomes and his top receivers available, Kansas City is expected to lean on its passing attack early. Analysts from multiple national outlets report that Mahomes’ midweek upgrade significantly increased confidence in the Chiefs’ offensive plan.

The Cowboys will look to counter with ball control and defensive pressure. Prescott’s efficiency on short throws has improved, and Lamb remains one of the most productive receivers this season. Williams is projected to play a major role in Dallas’ ground approach.

The absence of two Kansas City starters may shift some matchups, particularly in the red zone and on early downs, but the team’s skill positions remain intact. This balance has shaped the latest national Chiefs vs Cowboys predictions ahead of the holiday kickoff.

The Thanksgiving meeting now carries added weight for both teams as playoff positioning tightens. Updated Chiefs vs Cowboys predictions highlight a competitive matchup with both sides entering the game healthier than expected at key positions.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What are the latest Chiefs vs Cowboys predictions?

Analysts expect a close Thanksgiving matchup with both offenses near full strength. Injury improvements for Mahomes and Kansas City receivers influenced updated projections.

Q2: How do injuries affect the Chiefs on Thanksgiving?

Mahomes, Rice, and Worthy all improved late in the week, which strengthens the passing attack. The team will still miss Noah Gray and Trey Smith.

Q3: Are the Cowboys fully healthy for the game?

The Cowboys enter Thanksgiving in better overall condition. Their offense has stabilized with consistent production from Lamb, Pickens, and Williams.

Q4: Why are these injury updates important?

Key players returning provides stability and changes game planning for both teams. The updates shape how analysts evaluate the matchup.

Q5: Where is the Chiefs vs Cowboys game being played?

The game takes place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. EST.