Patrick Mahomes' status for Chiefs' season opener revealed

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Patrick Mahomes' status for Chiefs' season opener revealed

By Ernesto Cova | Last updated Aug 29, 2026 4:58 PM ET

Patrick Mahomes suffered a complex knee injury late in the 2025 season.

However, unlike most players returning from an ACL injury, the former MVP is expected to take the field for the season opener.

No. 15 didn't suit up for the Kansas City Chiefs' preseason games, but he's been practicing without any limitations.

That's why, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the Chiefs fully expect him to be under center to face the Denver Broncos.

Patrick Mahomes is on track to play in Week 1

“In my understanding, Patrick Mahomes is on track to start Week 1, which, if you followed closely, the kind of training camp that he has had, this is no surprise,” Rapoport said. “He was out there on Day 1, and he has hit every check mark, and by all accounts has looked as good on the field as really as he has had in several years. My understanding is he's had a better and more efficient training camp than really he has had in some time.”

From @NFLGameDay Kickoff: #Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes, after a stellar training camp, is on track for Week 1. pic.twitter.com/kHUlOSJsHS
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 29, 2026

Of course, this can all change, but with enough time to prepare for the season opener, the former Super Bowl champion should be on track to take the field.

The Chiefs might not have his best sidekick, though. Left tackle Josh Simmons is dealing with a back injury, and head coach Andy Reid hinted that he might need some time.

Mahomes has looked as sharp as ever in training camp, but he'll go against one of the sturdiest, hardest-hitting defensive fronts in the season opener.

Barring a setback, he won't shy away from that challenge.

Ernesto Cova

Ernesto is a bilingual (English-Spanish) sports writer with over eight years of experience covering major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB. Ernesto’s work focuses on providing insightful, up-to-date coverage of sports, blending his expertise in sports psychology with a passion for analyzing player performance, team dynamics, and trade developments across various sports leagues

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