After missing out on the playoffs for the first time in a decade, the Chiefs want to be back. Leading this charge will be their shot-caller, currently in rehab after an ACL injury. According to a medical expert, though, Patrick Mahomes' return might be nearer than we think.

According to Jeff Mueller, a physical therapist, on X, a Week 1 2026 return for Mahomes would truly be something unique in terms of returning from ACL injuries.

 ”Average return from ACLR is ~9 months. If Patrick Mahomes plays in week 1, he will have returned in 8 months 30 days, well short of the typical 9 month return timeline. Different breed 😤” Mueller post on his X account.

The expert opinion gives hope to the team. Even head coach Andy Reid said the 30-year-old has resumed throwing on his own but is still not practicing with the team.

Reid also noted that while Mahomes is progressing well, his involvement in OTAs starting May 26 will depend on NFL rules related to the Physically Unable to Perform list.

The team’s quarterback sustained a season-ending knee injury late in the 2025 season during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Then he underwent surgery in mid-December for a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee.

Mahomes is now approaching the healing process, with several hours of training after an injury that took 9-12 months to recover from.

In April, during his family trip to Texas, he brought the team’s trainer so that the consistency of his workouts would remain stable.

In all of this, the front office has its own stance on the quarterback's recovery

How the Front Office Is Seeing Patrick Mahomes’ Recovery

 For the Kansas City Chiefs front office, the indications around Patrick Mahomes’ recovery are looking better with each passing week.

As per USA Today, at the rookie minicamp, head coach Andy Reid gave one of the clearest updates about the team’s quarterback

“He’s in a position where he can do everything, I think. That’s what I can give you. He is throwing the ball. He does it on his own, so he’s not getting in any trouble here,” Reid said 

When OTAs begin in May, his role may still depend on league rules connected to the PUP list. But the Chiefs believe he is moving in the right direction.

Meanwhile, General Manager Brett Veach was optimistic as well.

“So, needless to say, he’s way ahead of schedule … we’re in a really good place right now,” he said when speaking about Mahomes’ progress.

As per Veach, Mahomes' sessions start around 7 am and work till 3-4 pm. With the amount of effort Mahomes puts in every day, how soon will that hard work show on the field?

What do you think about it? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Shreya Mishra

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote