Complication on Patrick Mahomes’ Injury Recovery, Revealed

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Dec 17, 2025 3:43 AM ET

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ season ended with a severe knee injury, but new details reveal his recovery may be more complicated than initially believed. What began as a confirmed ACL tear has evolved into a broader concern as doctors evaluate the full extent of the damage.

Imaging revealed that Mahomes also tore his LCL, an additional injury that can lengthen recovery and place more stress on the joint during rehabilitation. Surgeons typically treat both injuries in a single procedure, but the presence of multiple ligament tears often leads to a slower and more cautious timeline. Medical experts have noted that quarterbacks relying on mobility and directional changes face particular challenges when regaining confidence and explosiveness.

Dec 14, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) participates in early pregame warmups against the Los Angeles Chargers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Mahomes underwent surgery just one day after the injury, an unusually quick turnaround that reflects the urgency of his situation and the resources available to him. Physicians explained that while early surgery is not harmful, it bypasses the normal period when swelling settles, raising the stakes for a smooth recovery. Despite the rapid response, specialists emphasized that his progress will still depend on how the knee responds over the coming months.

A separate point of concern emerged when outside doctors questioned the clarity of the team’s announcement. They noted the difference between repairing and reconstructing the ligament, with reconstruction considered the standard for elite athletes. Without confirmation, speculation grew about which method was used and how it could influence Mahomes’ timetable.

Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes Suffers Complication to his Injury Recovery

Dec 14, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) runs the ball during the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

As it stands, the road ahead of Mahomes isn’t as easy as it seems. This complication is detailed in a post shared by Ian Rapoport on X.

More context: Patrick Mahomes also tore his LCL, along with his ACL, sources say. While that can complicate recovery, it doesn’t necessary extend his rehab longer than 9 months or so. https://t.co/aap0zeHK5d

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 16, 2025

The expected recovery for an ACL reconstruction is nine to twelve months, but the added LCL injury may extend his time on crutches and delay critical strengthening phases. Analysts have warned that even minor setbacks could push his return past the 2026 season opener, especially if weight‑bearing stresses the repaired tissue. The situation demands both patience and precision from the training staff.

Mahomes’ determination has never been questioned, but this recovery presents a new test. The Chiefs now face the challenge of supporting their franchise quarterback through a long rehabilitation while preparing for the possibility that his return may not come as quickly as hoped.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: