Overview
- Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Tuesday that Patrick Mahomes is “most likely” to start the Monday Night opener against the Denver Broncos unless there is a late setback.
- Mahomes tore the ACL and LCL in his left knee in mid-December 2025, had surgery the next day and completed an accelerated rehab program that included being cleared for full practice before training camp.
- Kansas City held Mahomes out of all preseason games, monitored his workload in camp with a protective brace, and gave live reps to backups while protecting his knee.
- Left tackle Josh Simmons is a long shot to play because of a back issue, so undrafted rookie Khalil Benson is expected to start at left tackle and protect Mahomes' blind side.
- Denver is preparing as if Mahomes will be healthy and mobile, and his likely return improves the Chiefs’ outlook but raises short-term questions about pass protection and early-season load management.