Patrick Mahomes is embodying the spirit of optimism as he navigates his recovery timeline.
After enduring a painful torn ACL during last season’s Week 15 clash against the Chargers, the two-time NFL MVP is feeling positive about his chances of joining the Kansas City Chiefs on the field for their opening game against the Denver Broncos.
“That’s my goal,” Mahomes shared with Yahoo Sports on Wednesday. “I’ve aimed for this from the start, wanting to be ready to play in Week 1. While I can’t foresee the future, I understand this is a lengthy process. Ultimately, the decision isn’t solely mine, but I’ll do everything in my power to convince the doctors and coaches to let me take the field in Week 1.”
“Missing that game against the Broncos isn’t something I want,” Mahomes explained, highlighting the importance of that matchup. “The Broncos won the division while we were sidelined, and I am eager to join my teammates and confront our rivals head-on.”
He remains hopeful that his medical specialists and coaching staff will give him the all-clear, paving the way for his anticipated comeback when the season kicks off.
Mahomes missed the final three games of 2025 with the injury, as the Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time in 11 years.
He was held out of full-team drills but has participated in offseason workouts.
Mahomes said he missed being on the field with his teammates and that after the injury, it was time to move his focus to 2026.
“After the season ended, it was just about getting back out there and try and do whatever I can to be able to participate in OTAs, which I did, and be ready to go for training camp,” Mahomes added. “I know it’s a long process, but you have these end goals. I’m just trying to achieve those end goals by dominating every single day.”
“We’ve had a great recovery program going these last few months and we’re in a good spot. Now it’s just about trying to continue to do that so that I’m ready to go when the season comes around.”
After going 0-3 without Mahomes in 2025, it’s safe to say the Chiefs need him back at full strength.
Through eight years as a starter, Mahomes has thrown 267 touchdowns and over 35,000 yards, transforming the Chiefs into a dynasty with three Super Bowl wins and five overall appearances.