Patrick Mahomes showing no fear as he prepares to return from ACL/LCL tear

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

Patrick Mahomes showing no fear as he prepares to return from ACL/LCL tear

By Clark Dalton | Last updated Sep 10, 2026 3:28 PM ET

It would be understandable if Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes were anxious heading into Week 1.

Mahomes suffered an ACL/LCL tear in his left knee in December 2025 but is now on track to play at home on "Monday Night Football" against the Denver Broncos after a speedy recovery. The QB isn't letting a return from his first major injury weigh on his mind heading into Week 1.

Patrick Mahomes talks mindset heading into Week 1

During his Thursday news conference, Mahomes said he'll wear a brace on his left knee, but he's not going to play with any other limitations.

"You've got to go out there and be yourself...I'm a competitor," Mahomes said. "I signed up for this. I'm going to go out there and play football. That's how I've always rolled...that's probably how I'll roll for the rest of my career."

Patrick Mahomes says he'll play with no limitations Week 1.

"You've got to go out there and be yourself... I'm a competitor. I signed up for this. I'm going to go out there and play football. That's how I've always rolled ... that's how I'll probably roll the rest of my career." pic.twitter.com/tijJEn8BW2
— Mark Poulose (@MarkPoulose) September 10, 2026

Mahomes mentioned he's not going to be reckless and will still try to avoid big hits. That'll be more challenging behind a shorthanded Kansas City offensive line.

Second-year left tackle Josh Simmons isn't expected to play against Denver because of a lingering back issue. Kahlil Benson, an undrafted rookie who starred collegiately for the Indiana Hoosiers, will likely replace him. Figure on him struggling against Denver's elite pass-rush (68 sacks in 2025, No. 1 in NFL).

Even so, a confident Mahomes should remind fans why he's a two-time league MVP. Mahomes' numbers weren't as prolific as in past seasons in 2025, but he still ranked 12th in passing yards (3,587) and sixth in QBR (68.5).

The Chiefs face enough problems as they hope to rebound from a 6-11 season in 2025. It's a positive for Kansas City that a trepid Mahomes isn't one of them.

Clark Dalton

Clark Dalton is a 2022 journalism graduate of the University of Texas at Austin. He gained experience in sports media over the past seven years — from live broadcasting and creating short films to podcasting and producing. In college, he wrote for The Daily Texan. He loves sports and enjoys hiking, kayaking and camping.

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