The Kansas City Chiefs spent much of the offseason holding their breath. A late-season knee injury to Patrick Mahomes shifted the franchise’s focus from another title push to a long recovery timeline.
As spring workouts approach, signs of progress are emerging. The QB is back on the field in a limited capacity. The chatter around his rehab has taken an unexpected turn.
Cris Collinsworth Reportedly Aiding Patrick Mahomes’ Rehab ‘Every Step’
Patrick Mahomes watches the action from a suite
Dec 25, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Patrick Mahomes watches the action from a suite during the third quarter at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
A bizarre report surfaced via social media claiming NBC analyst Cris Collinsworth has been personally assisting Mahomes throughout his rehab. The post alleges Collinsworth has visited Mahomes weekly, helping with everything from recovery routines to household errands as the quarterback works toward a Week 1 return.
“Cris Collinsworth has been helping Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes through ‘every step’ of his rehab process. Collinsworth has reportedly shown up to Mahomes’ home weekly to provide back massages, foot rubs, and various errands.”
REPORT: Cris Collinsworth has been helping Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes through “every step” of his rehab process.
Collinsworth has reportedly shown up to Mahomes’ home weekly to provide back massages, foot rubs, and various errands to ensure Mahomes is ready to go Week 1. pic.twitter.com/xKbFkZ1U31
— NFL Drop (@TheNFLDrop) April 5, 2026
The claim quickly went viral, though no credible outlet has confirmed the arrangement. That hasn’t stopped it from gaining traction, largely because Collinsworth’s long-standing admiration for Mahomes is well documented during broadcasts.
According to ESPN’s Nate Taylor on March 26, Mahomes recently posted a video of himself dropping back and throwing for the first time since undergoing surgery in December. The procedure repaired both a torn ACL and LCL, a significant setback that initially cast doubt on his availability for the 2026 opener.
Kansas City Chiefs HC Andy Reid has consistently praised the quarterback’s work ethic during rehab. Reid noted Mahomes has been at the facility daily, often putting in long hours with trainers. That commitment aligns with the organization’s hoped-for timeline for surgery completion.
The financial stakes are massive. Mahomes remains tied to a 10-year, $450 million contract, making his health central to Kansas City’s championship window. A delay in his recovery would ripple across roster decisions and offensive planning.
The Chiefs appear optimistic for now. Limited participation in offseason activities remains on the table, with training camp as the next major checkpoint.
As for Collinsworth’s alleged role, it reads more like internet fiction than football reality. In an era where narratives spread fast, even the strangest ones can dominate the conversation, especially when Mahomes is involved.