Home / Sports / Mahomes Pushes for Week 1 Return After Knee Surgery
Mahomes Pushes for Week 1 Return After Knee Surgery
16 Jan
Summary
- Mahomes targets Week 1 return with no restrictions.
- He underwent surgery for torn ACL and LCL injuries.
- Other knee structures were found to be clean and stable.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is actively working towards a complete return for the start of the 2026 NFL season, which begins on September 13, 2026. This ambitious goal comes just eight months after his December 15, 2025, surgery to repair torn ACL and LCL injuries in his left knee. Mahomes aims to be fully healthy and unrestricted for Week 1.
Mahomes revealed that while his knee injury was significant, the rest of the internal structures were remarkably clean, a factor he considers a "silver lining." This has allowed his rehabilitation to progress positively. He stated that his surgeon, Dr. Dan Cooper in Dallas, has provided him with limits for his training, and Mahomes intends to push these boundaries daily.
The Chiefs organization and Mahomes' medical team are collaborating to ensure his return prioritizes long-term health over rushing back. Despite the desire to play without limitations, Mahomes understands the importance of adhering to the rehabilitation protocol to guarantee sustained performance and avoid re-injury.




