Here's the latest timeline on Patrick Mahomes' return from ACL/LCL injury:
The bottom line: Everything is trending toward Week 1 availability (Sept. 14 vs. Broncos).
- Injury: Mahomes tore his ACL, LCL, and meniscus (plus required a "cyclops lesion" removal) in Week 15 of the 2025 season, with surgery in December. (from the Patrick Mahomes II page)
- Current status: He's been participating in 7-on-7 drills at OTAs wearing a black knee brace, showing "the familiar zip and accuracy" from before the injury. Chiefs GM Brett Veach says he's "way ahead of schedule." (from the Patrick Mahomes page)
- Rehab intensity: He's been in Kansas City 6–7 hours daily on rehab and has moved into the "cutting phase" (change-of-direction drills) — a critical test for his knee stability. (from the Patrick Mahomes II page)
- The target: Mahomes and the Chiefs are eyeing Week 1 — Coach Andy Reid hasn't set a hard deadline, but reports say it would be "a surprise" if he weren't available for the start of the season. (from the Patrick Mahomes page)
A few expert voices on it:
- Sal Vetri: "He's on track to return Week 1 and not be on the PUP list" —
- Establish The Run: Noted his ADP is falling despite the positive signs, which they found surprising given Mahomes was at OTAs just 5½ months post-injury —
- Ron Stewart pointed out the more complicated surgery (ACL + meniscus repair + cyclops removal) and suggested a more conservative 4–6 week miss range from training camp — so worth monitoring as camp opens in July —
One more thing: The Chiefs traded for Justin Fields as insurance, so if Mahomes' ramp-up takes longer into September, Fields could start early in the season.