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Mahomes’ Recovery: Chiefs Prepare for All Scenarios
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is diligently working his way back from a torn ACL and LCL sustained in December against the Los Angeles Chargers. The injury brought an abrupt end to the 2025 season for both Mahomes and the Chiefs, marking the first time in his career as a starter that the team missed the playoffs.
Intense Rehab and a Week 1 Target
Head coach Andy Reid recently shared an encouraging update on Mahomes’ progress with NFL Media’s Judy Battista. “He’s doing great,” Reid stated. “He spends a ton of time in the building… He’s in there for seven hours a day. It’s showing, the progress.” While Reid acknowledged Mahomes is “striving” to be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season, he stopped short of providing a definitive timeline, emphasizing the need to monitor his recovery closely.
Mahomes himself has publicly expressed his desire to return for the season opener. He previously stated his goal was to be ready without restrictions, aiming to grant the Chiefs their best chance to win. Reports indicate he is currently “tracking” to be ready for the start of the season, having already resumed throwing earlier this week.
Insurance Policy: The Justin Fields Acquisition
Recognizing the uncertainty surrounding Mahomes’ recovery, the Chiefs proactively acquired quarterback Justin Fields from the New York Jets in March. Fields struggled during his time with the Jets, but Reid expressed confidence in his ability to step in if needed. “Well, we snuck out and got a good quarterback to back him up,” Reid said. “So, if he doesn’t, you know, if he’s not able to make it for the beginning of the season, then we know we’ve got a legitimate backup there that can move win games for us.”
Mahomes’ Performance Prior to Injury
Before the injury, Mahomes was performing at a high level, completing 62.7 percent of his passes for 3,587 yards and 22 touchdowns with 11 interceptions in 14 games. His QBR of 68.5 ranked sixth among qualified quarterbacks, according to ESPN. Mahomes had been remarkably durable prior to the injury, having only missed two games in the previous four seasons (2021-2024).
A Crucial Offseason for Kansas City
The Chiefs finished the 2025 season with a 6-11 record, making a return to the playoffs a priority. The team is balancing a cautious approach to Mahomes’ rehabilitation with the urgency to compete again in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What exactly did Patrick Mahomes injure?
A: Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee.
Q: Is Justin Fields expected to start if Mahomes isn’t ready?
A: Fields is expected to fill in as the starting quarterback if Mahomes is unable to play at the beginning of the season.
Q: How many hours a day is Mahomes spending on rehab?
A: Mahomes is reportedly spending approximately seven hours a day at the team facility working on his recovery.
Q: What was Mahomes’ QBR in 2025?
A: Mahomes’ QBR was 68.5, ranking sixth among qualified quarterbacks.
Did you know? Mahomes previously played through a turf toe injury in 2021, competing throughout the postseason and undergoing surgery after Super Bowl LV.
Stay updated on the latest Chiefs news and Mahomes’ recovery progress. Visit the official Chiefs website for more information.
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