Patrick Mahomes Aims for Comeback in 2026 Season Opener

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has expressed his determination to return for the team’s season opener in 2026. This statement comes on the heels of his recent surgery to repair ligaments in his left knee, following a devastating injury during a playoff-eliminating loss to the Chargers in 2025.

Recent Injury and Surgery

During the critical Week 15 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, Mahomes suffered an injury that saw him tear his ACL and LCL. The repercussions were severe, leading to a surgery in December aimed at repairing the damaged ligaments.

Mahomes’ Recovery Timeline

"The doctors said I could [be ready for Week 1]," Mahomes shared in a recent interview. "But I can’t predict what happens throughout the process." Fortunately, the recovery period for such injuries generally hovers around nine months, positioning him to potentially return just in time for the 2026 season opener scheduled for September 10.

Rehabilitation Progress

Mahomes is currently undergoing a rigorous rehabilitation program. He commented on his recovery, stating, “Rehab’s going great… just hitting all the checkpoints that the doctor wants you to do, getting the strength and the range, mobility back.” He added that the Chiefs’ athletic training staff, particularly Julie Frymyer, has been instrumental in his recovery, pushing him to reach his goals.

Key Recovery Milestones

• Strength Training: Focusing on rebuilding muscle strength around the knee.
• Mobility Exercises: Regaining range of motion essential for his gameplay.
• Physical Therapy Supervision: Regular assessments by his medical team to evaluate progress.

The State of the Chiefs

Mahomes’ return is crucial for a team that faced a challenging 2025 season. The Chiefs finished with a disappointing 5-12 record, marking Andy Reid’s first losing season in his 13-year tenure. With hopes for a stronger comeback, Mahomes will not only aim to restore his performance but also help push the Chiefs back into contention for the postseason.

Possible Changes in the Offensive Strategy

Rumors suggest that by the time Mahomes returns, he may be adapting to a new offensive coordinator. Current OC Matt Nagy, who is in his second stint with the team, is reportedly a frontrunner for the vacant head coaching position with the Tennessee Titans.

Conclusion

As Patrick Mahomes navigates this challenging period in his career, both fans and teammates are eagerly anticipating his return to the field. His dedication to rehab and the support from his team signify a solid foundation for his comeback. With the right conditions and continued progress, Mahomes looks poised to reclaim his position as the driving force for the Chiefs in the 2026 NFL season.

Learn more about ACL injuries and rehabilitation here and stay updated on the upcoming NFL season to see how Mahomes performs upon his return.