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Patrick Mahomes Nearing Clearance to Start Week 1

Chiefs expect a medical sign‑off this week with final approval set to hinge on Mahomes' contact drills and the team's measured ramp‑up plan.

Overview

  • Mahomes tore his ACL and LCL on December 14, 2025, and has followed a staged rehab program that targets a nine‑to‑12‑month recovery timeline.
  • Recent reporting from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer says Mahomes is 'on track' and Chiefs personnel expect full clearance could arrive this week.
  • The team will make a final decision only after Mahomes completes full‑team contact reps in training camp and receives formal medical sign‑off from team doctors.
  • Kansas City traded for Justin Fields in March to provide a ready contingency starter if Mahomes is not cleared for the Sept. 14 opener.
  • The Chiefs plan a cautious, season‑focused ramp‑up that will limit early live work to protect long‑term availability and shape the team's outlook for the opening weeks.