Overview
- Mahomes underwent surgery to repair a torn left ACL and LCL in December 2025 and was medically cleared for full participation on July 24, 2026.
- He has taken on-field reps in early August at the Chiefs’ St. Joseph camp while wearing a knee brace and has shown encouraging strength and throwing mechanics according to coaches and analysts.
- Mahomes says the final step is rebuilding the mental confidence that comes from taking a live hit and making plays under contact.
- Coaches and medical staff are conducting day-to-day monitoring and seriously considering limiting or skipping his preseason game snaps to reduce the risk of re-injury.
- The Chiefs’ retention of experienced backup Justin Fields and addition of Kenneth Walker III give the team options to reduce Mahomes’ workload and protect his availability for a likely Week 1 start.