Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has received full clearance to participate in all team practices as the club kicks off its training camp. Head coach Andy Reid announced the update Friday, stating that Mahomes has no restrictions following his recovery from a torn ACL.
"Pat's doing great with his [rehab]," Reid told reporters at Missouri Western State University. "Right now he's got clearance to practice and do all the different periods that we have in this camp. We'll just take it day by day and see how he does. He'll have plenty of eyes on him from coaches to trainers to doctors. But right now, he's been cleared to go ahead and participate fully."
Mahomes, who underwent surgery on his left knee after suffering the injury in a Week 15 game against the Los Angeles Chargers last December, expressed his excitement to return to the field. "I feel stronger than I've ever felt, as far as strength and lifting," Mahomes said. "I feel amazing... I'm excited just to be able to play football."
The 30-year-old quarterback has spent his offseason engaged in rehabilitation. "I've been seeing cinderblock walls rehabbing every single day in Kansas City. Now to be on that practice field with my teammates, it's going to be a lot of fun," he added.
Reid expressed optimism about Mahomes' readiness for the regular season opener but stressed a cautious approach. "I'm optimistic, and I know he is extremely optimistic," Reid explained. "But I think you've got to see how things go here. Let's just see where we're at and not make any predictions or anything else. Take it day by day and see where it goes."
Reid also commended Mahomes' dedication to his recovery, noting his consistent presence and diligent work at the team facility. "He's been up here every day, doing his thing, rehabbing. I mentioned before how much time he spent - if anybody spent time doing this thing the right way, he's it," Reid said. "We appreciate that. And he's been given clearance by the doctors to work. And they're pretty comfortable with that. But keeping an eye on him."
Quarterbacks and rookies reported to St. Joseph on Friday, with the rest of the veteran squad scheduled to join on July 28. Mahomes' participation in preseason games in August remains to be determined, with Reid reiterating the team's intention to "take it day by day."