The success of the Kansas City Chiefs next season likely hinges on Patrick Mahomes’ health. He tore his ACL on Dec. 14 and missed the remainder of the 2025 campaign. The star quarterback and his team missed the playoffs and are now looking to bounce back strong and prove that they are still Super Bowl contenders.
Mahomes finished the year by completing 315-of-502 passes for 3,587 yards, 22 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He added 64 rushing attempts for 422 yards and five scores. It was the first time Kansas City missed the postseason in the Mahomes QB1 era, and the 6-11 record marked its worst since 2012.
Reports suggest that the three-time Super Bowl champion could return as early asWeek 1. This report was fueled by Pat McAfee’s recent revelation. Mahomes also reportedly participated in OTAs and minicamp in a limited capacity, indicating significant progress in his recovery.
Kansas City quarterback Patrick M. (15) throws a pass during the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Pat McAfee Shares Positive Update on Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes’ Recovery
McAfee’s update will likely make Kansas City fans feel more optimistic ahead of the 2026 season. The sports analyst shared what he saw from the suiperstar quarterback during Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s wedding on July 3.
“Patrick Mahomes, I know he was injured last year and I don’t want to give away too much stuff breaking from the wedding,” said the former NFL punter on the “Pat McAfee Show.” “Patrick Mahomes is in the middle of the dance floor. How could you not be really? I’m being honest with everything that’s going on.”
🚨 BIG UPDATE on Patrick Mahomes’ recovery via @PatMcAfeeShow:
“I know he was injured last year… Patrick Mahomes @PatrickMahomes was in the middle of the dance floor [at the @tkelce-Swift wedding].”
Safe to say the knee is looking good! 👀#ChiefsKingdom #PatrickMahomes #NFL… pic.twitter.com/g6ABDJjybs
— Chiefs Blitz (@ChiefsBlitz) July 13, 2026
Initially, many feared that Mahomes would miss the early part of next season, but this personal update from the renowned ESPN analyst and commentator quashed that belief. However, coaches will likely determine his potential return based on his performance intraining camp.
Players will officially report to training camp on July 28, with the first open public practice sessions beginning the next day. The team will hold it at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Missouri, and will conclude on Aug. 20.
Related reading:
Giants RB Cam Skattebo Issues Denial After Photo Goes Viral
Aaron Rodgers Poised to Make NFL History in Final Season
Reporter Molly McGrath Turns Heads With Appearance at ‘NFL Live’
Bills QB Josh Allen Hints at Retirement Plan