Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has disclosed that star quarterback Patrick Mahomes is dedicating immense effort to his rehabilitation, aiming for a remarkably swift return from a devastating knee injury.
A Daunting Recovery Timeline
The three-time Super Bowl winner suffered a torn ACL and LCL during the Chiefs' defeat to the Los Angeles Chargers in late November. This type of multi-ligament knee damage typically requires a recovery period of nine to 12 months.
This timeline sets up a direct race against the calendar for Mahomes, with the Chiefs' first game of the 2026 NFL campaign scheduled for early September. His presence on the field for that Week 1 contest is now in serious doubt.
"Spending a Lot of Hours" in Rehab
Despite the long odds, coach Reid provided an optimistic update on the 30-year-old's progress. "He’s in the building working and doing his rehab, spending a lot of hours doing it," the 67-year-old coach stated this week.
Reid emphasised Mahomes' determined approach, adding, "He’s really attacked that and will continue to do that. He’s around and sees the guys, but most of his time is being spent rehabbing."
The injury compounded a miserable period for Kansas City, as the loss to the Chargers officially eliminated them from playoff contention. Mahomes was later seen watching glumly from a luxury box at Arrowhead Stadium on Christmas Day as the Chiefs fell 20-13 to the Denver Broncos.
Broader Implications for the Chiefs
The quarterback crisis deepened for Reid's side, as backup Gardner Minshew also sustained a knee ligament injury the week after Mahomes went down.
Looking further ahead, a major question looms over who will be catching Mahomes' passes when he does return. His close friend and star tight end, Travis Kelce, is set to contemplate retirement for a second consecutive year following the team's playoff disappointment.
The 36-year-old Kelce has stated he will make a decision after the season concludes, following talks with the Chiefs organisation and his family. He has previously been adamant that he would never play for another NFL franchise.
All eyes now remain fixed on Mahomes' intensive rehabilitation process, as one of the sport's biggest stars battles to overcome a severe physical setback and lead his team once more.
