Mahomes Likely to Sit Out Chiefs Preseason Opener

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid told reporters that the “percentages are leaning” toward keeping quarterback Patrick Mahomes off the field for the team’s first preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams on August 15. Reid said he does not know whether Mahomes will appear in the second or third preseason contests either, emphasizing that the decision is tied to the quarterback’s recovery timeline and the need for backup players to earn reps.

KSHB - Kansas City NewsChiefs HC Andy Reid gives major Patrick Mahomes update for preseason opener HeavyWill Patrick Mahomes play in preseason Week 1? KC Chiefs HC Andy Reid says get ready to learn Justin Fields and Garrett Nussmeier NBC SportsSports IllustratedKMBC - Kansas City NewsESPNKYTV - Springfield NewsBleacher Report

Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee during the Week 15 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on December 14, 2025. He underwent reconstructive surgery the next day and has spent the offseason in an intensive rehabilitation program, reportedly working “seven hours a day” on his recovery. The quarterback was cleared to participate fully in training camp in late July and has been practicing in a non-contact jersey, but the Chiefs have opted to monitor his progress day by day.

'Seven hours a day working': Chiefs HC Andy Reid reflects on Patrick Mahomes; off-season grind

• Injury: Torn ACL and LCL (Dec 14, 2025).

Chiefs' Reid: Mahomes unlikely to play in preseason opener

• Rehab intensity: Seven-hour-per-day regimen reported by the coaching staff.

People Magazine

• Preseason history: Mahomes has never missed an entire preseason in his nine-year career.

Chiefs' Reid: Mahomes unlikely to play in preseason opener

• Backup quarterbacks: Justin Fields (veteran), rookie Garrett Nussmeier, and Chris Oladokun are slated to receive the majority of snaps in the opening game.

Will Patrick Mahomes play in preseason Week 1? KC Chiefs HC Andy Reid says get ready to learn Justin Fields and Garrett Nussmeier

Reid framed the preseason plan as a “process” aimed at protecting Mahomes’ surgically repaired knee while giving the younger quarterbacks valuable game experience. He noted that the team has and that “the more reps they get, the better.” The Chiefs’ medical staff continues to evaluate Mahomes daily, balancing the need for confidence in his mobility with the broader goal of a healthy start to the season.

KYTV - Springfield News

• “There’s a pretty good chance I don’t play him [against the Rams],” — Andy Reid, chiefs head coach

NBC Sports

• “I mean, there's a pretty good chance where I don't play him,” — Andy Reid, chiefs head coach

ESPN

• “We've got new people behind [Mahomes] that need some work,” — Andy Reid, chiefs head coach

ESPN

• “I'm a competitor, so [on] game day, I'm going to want to be out there,” — Patrick Mahomes

ESPN

The Chiefs open the regular season at home against the Denver Broncos on September 14. Mahomes has indicated his target is to be ready for that game, and the coaching staff will continue to assess his knee each day leading up to the start of the season.

Heavy