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 severe knee injury.
A Daunting Recovery Timeline
The three-time Super Bowl winner faces a formidable challenge after suffering a torn ACL and LCL in the Chiefs' defeat to the Los Angeles Chargers earlier last month. This multi-ligament knee injury typically requires a recovery period of nine to 12 months, setting up a direct race against the calendar.
With the 2026 NFL season scheduled to commence in early September, Mahomes is in a battle to be fit for Kansas City's opening game. Despite the daunting prognosis, Coach Reid reports the 30-year-old quarterback is attacking his rehab with singular focus.
Mahomes' All-Consuming Rehabilitation
"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. "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."
Mahomes' injury compounded a dismal period for the franchise, as the loss to the Chargers officially eliminated them from playoff contention. He was later seen watching glumly from a luxury box at Arrowhead Stadium on Christmas Day as the Chiefs, also missing backup QB Gardner Minshew to a knee injury, fell 20-13 to the Denver Broncos.
Future Uncertainty and Kelce's Retirement Ponderings
When Mahomes does return, a key question surrounds whether he will be throwing to his long-time teammate and close friend, tight end Travis Kelce. The 36-year-old Kelce is set to ponder retirement for the second consecutive year following Kansas City's playoff disappointment.
Kelce, who nearly walked away after last season's Super Bowl defeat, has remained cryptic about his plans. He insists he will make a decision after the season concludes, following discussions with the Chiefs organisation and his family. He has, however, previously stated unequivocally that he will not play for any other NFL team besides the Chiefs.
The coming months will therefore be critical for the Chiefs' future, hinging on Mahomes' ability to defy medical timelines and the potential departure of an offensive icon.
