Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes says he plans to be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season as he continues his recovery from major knee surgery.
Mahomes underwent surgery in mid-December to repair torn ACL and LCL ligaments in his left knee. Speaking Thursday on a Zoom call, he said his rehabilitation is progressing well and remains on schedule to allow a return for offseason work, with training camp also a possibility.
"I want to be ready for Week 1. The doctors said I could," Mahomes said, "but I can't predict what happens throughout the process. That's the goal, to play Week 1 and have no restrictions. You want to be out there healthy and give us the best chance to win. I hope to do some things in OTAs and training camp and be able to do things there."
The injury occurred Dec. 14 late in a loss to the Chargers, a game that effectively ended Kansas City’s playoff hopes. Mahomes initially believed the injury was minor and even asked the training staff to brace his knee so he could finish the game. An MRI later revealed the torn ligaments, ending his season. He underwent surgery roughly 24 hours later in Dallas, performed by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Dan Cooper.
Recovery from the procedure typically takes around nine months, though timelines can vary. The 2026 NFL season is expected to begin Sept. 10, with the Chiefs likely opening play shortly thereafter.
Mahomes said the rehab process has taught him patience. “Not every day is going to feel great,” he said. “You need people you trust who will push you, but also keep you safe.”
Most of his rehabilitation is taking place in Kansas City with Chiefs physical therapist Julie Frymyer, who has worked with Mahomes through previous injuries. He will also make periodic trips to Dallas for follow-up evaluations with Dr. Cooper.
“As bad as the injury was, it was as clean as it could be,” Mahomes said. “Everything else in the knee checked out. Now it’s just about getting the ACL and LCL right.”
That hasn’t stopped Mahomes from wanting to test his limits. While he admits his instinct is to push every day, he understands the importance of sticking to the plan laid out by his medical team.
“There are places you want to go but can’t yet,” he said. “They’re doing it for a reason. It starts with Dr. Cooper, his staff, and Julie in the training room.”
When Mahomes returns, the Chiefs could look noticeably different. Kansas City faces major roster decisions and could also be searching for a new offensive coordinator, with Matt Nagy interviewing for multiple head coaching openings.
After an offense that struggled last season and a team that missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade, Mahomes said change might be a positive.
“I trust Coach Reid to have a plan if Coach Nagy moves on,” Mahomes said. “I just want someone who loves football, brings new ideas, and is fully committed to winning. That’s what it takes to be great in this league.”
