Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes stated he will play without limitations in his Week 1 return against the Denver Broncos, signaling a full recovery from the torn ACL and LCL in his left knee. Mahomes underwent a nine-month rehabilitation period following the injury he sustained in a December 14 game last season.
"I’ve built up the strength [in my knee] and built up all the days of rehab so that I can be myself," Mahomes told reporters on Thursday. "I’m going to keep myself out of harm’s way, like I always will, not trying to take big hits. But I’m a competitor, I signed up for this and I’m going to go out there and play football. That’s how I’ve always rolled, no matter what it is."
Mahomes' injury effectively ended the 2025 season for the Chiefs, preventing them from making the playoffs after three consecutive Super Bowl appearances, including two victories. The team will begin its new season by hosting the Broncos on September 14.
"That’s what makes me who I am," Mahomes said regarding his willingness to run the ball. "I just love competing. Playing quarterback is one thing, but you’ve got to love competing to have success in this league. I’ll try not to lay any blocks [in the open field], hopefully — unless it’s needed."
Prior to his injury in the 2025 season, Mahomes completed 315 passes for 3,587 yards and 22 touchdowns, with a career-low 62.7 percent completion rate. Head coach Andy Reid indicated that the team's offensive strategy will remain consistent with previous seasons.