Dan Orlovsky has 'significant concerns' about Patrick Mahomes

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

Dan Orlovsky has 'significant concerns' about Patrick Mahomes ahead of return from injury

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Sep 8, 2026 6:57 PM ET

Just nine months after undergoing surgery to repair a torn ACL and LCL, it has been announced that Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is set to take the field and start at quarterback in Week 1.

A full recovery from an ACL tear in nine months is unheard of, leaving many to question just how healthy Mahomes truly is and how productive he can be.

That includes ESPN's NFL insider Dan Orlovsky, as he revealed his concerns surround the return of Mahomes.

Dan Orlovsky has serious concerns about Patrick Mahomes

"Yes. Significant concerns," Orlovsky told his co-hosts when asked if he had any concerns about Mahomes in Week 1. "That being said, never take greatness for granted. ... Yes, I have concerns. This [Denver Broncos] defensive front, even without Jonathon Cooper ... led the NFL in sacks. Because of the way the offensive makeup is right now, I'm a little bit cautious going into this game if I'm Kansas City."

.@danorlovsky7 has "significant concerns" about Patrick Mahomes' Week 1 return vs. the Broncos pic.twitter.com/wpF8pWkcRP
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) September 8, 2026

Not having Josh Simmons certainly won't help

Kansas City is expected to be without its starting left tackle Josh Simmons for the season opener, even more of a reason for Chiefs fans to be concerned about the health and well-being of Mahomes.

With Simmons on the shelf, the Chiefs are comfortable trotting out undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson to protect Mahomes from the Broncos' elite pass rush.

Patrick Mahomes' performance will be talked about either way

If the offensive line can hold up, Mahomes will have a chance to showcase his health and abilities.

A poor performance would certainly stir up conversations, but an excellent performance from the three-time Super Bowl champion would set the standard for players returning from ACL injuries in the future.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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