Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes underwent surgery in Dallas on Monday evening to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, the team confirmed. The operation was performed by Dr Dan Cooper, a specialist based in Texas.
The procedure came just over 24 hours after Mahomes was injured during a 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers that eliminated the Chiefs from play-off contention. The team's statement did not mention any additional damage, but it is understood the lateral collateral ligament was also repaired.
Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Mahomes was in a good place mentally despite feeling he had let people down. 'He's ready for the challenge ahead,' said Reid. The quarterback will begin rehabilitation immediately, but typical recovery from ACL reconstruction means he is unlikely to be available for the start of next season.
Mahomes was hurt when he was hit from behind by Chargers defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand while scrambling away from pressure. Gardner Minshew replaced him and nearly drove the Chiefs to a game-tying field goal, but his pass intended for Travis Kelce was intercepted, sealing the defeat.
