Will Patrick Mahomes Start The Season After ACL Tear? Travis Kelce Weighs In

The NFL world is holding its breath as the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for the 2026 season, and the question on everyone’s mind is: will Patrick Mahomes be ready to take the field in Week One?

The 30-year-old superstar quarterback has been working tirelessly to return after tearing his ACL and LCL in December 2025, an injury that prematurely ended his previous season. Known for his grit, determination, and unrelenting work ethic, Mahomes has thrown himself into an intense rehab program, hoping to be ready for the Chiefs’ season opener against the Denver Broncos at GEHA Field on Monday Night Football, September 14.

Kelce on Mahomes’ Progress

Travis Kelce, Mahomes’ longtime teammate and tight end, addressed the topic during a candid episode of the New Heights podcast.

“Trav, do we get to have Patrick Mahomes on the field Monday night?” asked Travis’ brother Jason Kelce. “Is he back week one? Because they said it at the Disney Upfronts, and I was like, I don’t know if he’s back yet, but I think I like that we’re advertising it this way. Is he gonna be back?”

Travis gave a measured response:

“That man’s working his ass off. I know that.”

Jason laughed, acknowledging that Travis’ reply was a “corporate answer,” carefully avoiding confirmation or denial. The exchange perfectly captures the mix of optimism and caution surrounding the quarterback’s recovery.

GM Brett Veach Praises Hard Work

Chiefs general manager Brett Veach has been closely monitoring Mahomes’ rehab, which has been nothing short of extraordinary. Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, Veach praised the quarterback’s dedication:

“I don’t want to speak for Rick Burkholder, our head trainer, and I’m not a doctor, but it’s been an awesome experience seeing exactly how Pat Mahomes has attacked this rehab process. He’s in this building from 7 a.m. to 3 or 4 p.m. every single day. If he goes to Texas for a few days, he takes one of our assistant trainers with him.”

Veach added that Mahomes’ commitment has kept him “pretty far ahead of schedule” and called him “a motivating presence — an example to the building on how to approach every day like a true professional.”

For fans, Veach’s comments provide reassurance: Mahomes is pushing his limits to be ready, showing the same relentless drive that has made him a two-time Super Bowl champion and league MVP.

Coach Andy Reid Offers Cautious Optimism

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid also addressed the question of Mahomes’ return during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show. While acknowledging the quarterback’s progress, Reid tempered expectations with caution:

“I hear people say, ‘Well, he’s ahead of schedule.’ I’m not sure who makes the schedule. Everybody’s different. I can tell you, though, he’s spent a ton of time here. He’s getting better every day. He’s not taking any setbacks.”

Reid emphasized that recovery is a “day-to-day” process.

“I would tell you he’s doing very well, but it’s a day-to-day thing. As long as he keeps making progress forward, maybe you’ll have a chance to see him the first game, but again, we’ll play that as we go.”

Reid’s measured optimism aligns with the careful approach the Chiefs have taken with all aspects of Mahomes’ rehabilitation, recognizing the stakes for both player health and team success.

The Road Back from Injury

Mahomes’ injury in December 2025 was one of the most severe of his career. Tearing both the ACL and LCL in his left knee, the quarterback faced an extensive recovery process that required surgery, physical therapy, and strength rebuilding. The timeline was initially uncertain, leading to speculation across the NFL about whether Mahomes would be ready for the start of the 2026 season.

While many quarterbacks might take a conservative approach, Mahomes has been relentless in his recovery, often working long hours with trainers, following a strict rehabilitation plan, and maintaining the mental focus necessary for a return to elite performance.

His teammates have taken note of his dedication. Travis Kelce, who has been both a vocal supporter and motivator, describes Mahomes’ work ethic as “second to none.” The tight end believes that the quarterback’s return will energize the entire team and provide the Chiefs with a significant boost heading into a season where expectations remain sky-high.

Teammates and Fan Excitement

The Chiefs’ roster and fanbase are anxiously awaiting confirmation of Mahomes’ availability. The quarterback’s presence is a critical factor in the team’s offensive strategy, particularly with wide receiver upgrades still in progress and a revamped rushing attack taking shape.

Kelce’s comments, while cautious, hint at optimism:

“That man’s working his ass off. I know that.”

The understated statement captures both respect for Mahomes’ dedication and the reality that the NFL’s grind requires patience. Fans have responded eagerly to news of Mahomes’ progress, sharing encouragement, anticipation, and excitement on social media.

Balancing Expectations

While optimism runs high, there is recognition that rushing Mahomes back prematurely could have consequences. ACL and LCL recoveries are complex, requiring not just strength but also confidence in movement, agility, and reaction time. The Chiefs are clearly prioritizing long-term performance and health over immediate results.

Veach and Reid have both signaled that they will not force a decision, preferring a flexible, cautious approach that allows Mahomes to return when fully ready. This approach reflects the franchise’s commitment to player welfare, a hallmark of their management philosophy.

Looking Ahead

As the NFL preseason approaches, the league and fans will watch Mahomes’ progress closely. If the quarterback is cleared in time for the Sept. 14 opener, it would mark a remarkable comeback from one of the most challenging injuries of his career.

The Chiefs’ approach — blending medical oversight, player dedication, and cautious optimism — suggests that Mahomes’ return is more than just possible; it may be a pivotal moment that sets the tone for the entire season.

Conclusion: Hope and Determination

Patrick Mahomes’ journey from December 2025 injury to potential Week One starter embodies resilience, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. With Travis Kelce, Andy Reid, and Brett Veach monitoring progress and offering cautious support, the quarterback is in the best possible hands.

Whether he takes the field in September or slightly later, Mahomes’ commitment and professionalism have already set a standard for the team. The NFL world waits eagerly, but one thing is certain: when Mahomes is ready, he will do so on his own terms — with the same fire, precision, and determination that have made him one of the game’s greatest talents.