Patrick Mahomes is set to make his return for the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday after nine months of recovery from knee surgery, but the team faces immediate concerns on their offensive line. Second-year left tackle Josh Simmons has been ruled out for the opener against the Denver Broncos due to a back issue, leaving undrafted-free agent Kahlil Benson to protect Mahomes' blind side.
The Broncos led the NFL in sacks last season, amplifying worries for a fan base concerned about Mahomes' ability to move and perform in his first game back from a torn ACL and LCL. "Mahomes might be screwed Monday night," one fan posted on X. "Legit bad scenario for a first game back from an ACL."
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid expressed confidence in Benson, stating, "He's done a nice job for us. He's obviously shown us that he has the ability to play. We wouldn't put him in there if we didn't think that." Mahomes also voiced his trust in the player selected by the coaching staff, saying, "I've got trust in anyone that the coaches put out there because I know that they've worked their tail off to be at that spot."
Benson, who previously played right tackle at Indiana and was part of a national championship team, is expected to step into a crucial role. Jaylon Moore, who has experience at left tackle, is slated to start at right tackle.
Mahomes' recovery has been notably swift, returning in nine months after tearing his ACL and LCL last December. Teammate Travis Kelce marveled at his quarterback's dedication, remarking on his podcast, "I've seen a guy do anything possible to be ready for Week 1. What he's done to get to this point is second to none."
Kelce added, "We're excited that he's going to be out there rocking with us on Week 1. In terms of his ability to move around, he's a competitor, man. And he only knows one way to play the game - when that ball snaps I just expect to see Patty Mahomes playing football."
The Chiefs are looking to rebound after missing the postseason for the first time in 11 years in 2025, a season marred by injuries. The team has since added former Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker III and drafted cornerback Mansoor Delane.