Patrick Mahomes injury update: Chiefs urged to slow down QB’s’ comeback after ACL tear

Patrick Mahomes’ recovery from a serious knee injury has become one of the biggest stories of the NFL right now. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback tore both his ACL and LCL late in the 2025 season and had surgery in December. While Mahomes hopes to return for Week 1 of the 2026 season, many experts believe the team should not rush his comeback.With the Chiefs entering a crucial rebuilding phase after missing the playoffs, the decision around Mahomes’ recovery timeline could shape their entire season.Mahomes suffered the injury in Week 15 against the Los Angeles Chargers. While trying to extend a play, he was hit and his left knee bent awkwardly. He needed help leaving the field, and later scans confirmed torn ACL and LCL ligaments.The injury ended his season and marked the first major long-term injury of his NFL career. Kansas City finished the year with a disappointing record and failed to make the playoffs for the first time since 2014.Mahomes underwent surgery in mid-December and has been rehabbing under the supervision of the team’s medical staff. Despite the seriousness of the injury, Mahomes remains confident. In a recent update, he said doctors believe he could be ready for the season opener.“I want to be ready for Week 1,” Mahomes said during a Zoom call. “That’s the goal to play with no restrictions.”He added that he hopes to take part in offseason workouts and training camp if his recovery continues to go well.Not everyone agrees with Mahomes’ timeline. Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio has urged caution, saying that returning quickly from a late-season ACL tear is very difficult.Florio explained that Mahomes’ playing style makes the situation even riskier. Unlike many quarterbacks, Mahomes relies heavily on movement, scrambling, quick cuts, and throwing on the run. All of this puts extra pressure on the knee.“You want to be very sure that knee is fully healthy before he starts doing all those special things again,” Florio said.Michael Holley also warned that Mahomes is the kind of player who will try to push himself back early, even if he is not fully ready. Because of this, he believes the Chiefs must protect their star quarterback.For the Chiefs, the bigger concern is not just getting Mahomes back on the field, but making sure he is fully fit for the long term. Kansas City missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014, and the 2026 season is seen as a reset year for the team. Rushing Mahomes back too soon could risk another injury and hurt their future plans.For now, Mahomes remains positive and focused on rehab. But the message from experts is clear: patience may be the smartest move. The Chiefs’ success depends not just on Mahomes returning quickly, but on him returning healthy.