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Patrick Mahomes ACL recovery update
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Patrick Mahomes recovered from ACL/LCL surgery and was cleared for training camp. The Chiefs sit him in preseason to avoid risk, with his return uncertain.
Background
Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee in December 2025, ending his season and contributing to the Chiefs' 6-11 record. He underwent surgery on Dec. 15, 2025, and has since made a remarkable recovery, being fully cleared ahead of training camp. However, head coach Andy Reid has decided to sit him for the preseason opener to avoid any unnecessary risk.
How it unfolded
- Dec 15, 2025Mahomes and Zach Ertz undergo ACL and LCL repair surgery.
- Dec 2025Mahomes suffers a season-ending torn ACL and LCL in his left knee during the 2025 regular season.
- Aug 14, 2026Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirms Mahomes will not play in the preseason opener vs. Rams, a career-first decision.
- Aug 16, 2026Mahomes watches from the sideline as the Chiefs open preseason against the Rams.
- Aug 18, 2026The Athletic reports Mahomes and Ertz became rehab buddies, motivating each other through recovery.
- Aug 19, 2026Chiefs prepare to make a decision on quarterback amid Mahomes' recovery trending in the right direction.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Andy Reid says Mahomes will not play in preseason opener, taking every precaution with his superstar quarterback.
- Player
- Mahomes says he's preparing to play and following Reid's guidance, but admits slowing himself down is tough.
- Analysts
- Some analysts note Mahomes' recovery is remarkable but his return to full form remains uncertain.
Still unverified
No unverified points.