Patrick Mahomes sets target for 2026 injury return: Torn ligament recovery time

After years of unparalleled success, the Kansas City Chiefs came crashing down to earth in 2025.

Not only did the team fail to qualify for the playoffs, quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a serious knee injury in the December 14 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.

Mahomes was found to have torn the ACL and LCL in his left knee, forcing him to undergo surgery. The 30-year QB is facing a long road back to full fitness but he is hoping to be back in time for the start of the 2026 NFL season.

“I want to be ready for Week 1. The doctors said I could,” Mahomes said on Thursday. “But I can’t predict what happens throughout the process.”

“That’s the goal, to play Week 1 and have no restrictions. You want to be out there healthy and give us the best chance to win. I hope to do some things in OTAs and training camp and be able to do things there.”

What next for the Chiefs?

Mahomes has been the Chiefs quarterback since 2018, leading the team to seven straight AFC championship games and winning three Super Bowls. The Chiefs may look to refresh the roster this offseason, potentially moving on from franchise legend Travis Kelce.

Whatever the future direction in Kansas City, Mahomes will be a big part of it. He has another nine months until the start of the 2026 season and will be desperate to be back challenging for championships.

“What I’ve found out through this process is not every day is going to feel amazing,” Mahomes admitted. “You have to have somebody you trust that’s going to get the best out of you, but that’s going to keep you safe.”

“Knowing me, I’m going to push it to the exact limit every single day,” he continued. “There’s places you can’t go yet. You want to but you can’t go yet. And they’re doing it for a reason. It starts with Dr. Cooper and his team, and Julie and the training room.”

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.