Full Breakdown
Mahomes Likely to Miss Chiefs’ Preseason Opener Amid Knee Recovery
8/10/2026, 8:57:24 PM
Core Event
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid indicated on August 7, 2026 that quarterback Patrick Mahomes is “unlikely to play” in the team’s preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams on August 15, 2026. Reid said the “percentages are leaning” toward keeping Mahomes out of that game and added uncertainty about his participation in the second and third preseason contests versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks.
Background & Context
Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and torn LCL in his left knee during the Chiefs’ December 14, 2025 Week 15 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, an injury that ended Kansas City’s playoff run. He underwent reconstructive surgery within a day of the injury and was fully cleared for camp practices in early July 2026. Historically, Mahomes has played in every preseason of his nine-year career, using the games to reacclimate to contact. This season would mark the first time he could sit out the entire preseason.
Data & Statistics
- 2025 regular-season stats (career-low): 62.7 % completion rate, 3,587 yards, 22 TDs, 11 INTs.
- Preseason pass attempts: 26 (2022), 17 (2023), 18 (2024), 14 (2025).
Official Statements & Responses
He expressed confidence in his recovery, noting that he sometimes “forgets” about the injury during long practices.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There’s a pretty good chance I don’t play him [against the Rams],” — Andy Reid, chiefs head coach
- “There’s a pretty good chance I don’t play him. Percentages are leading that way,” — Andy Reid, chiefs head coach
- “There's a pretty good chance I don't play him (against the Rams) -- percentages are leading that way,” — Andy Reid, chiefs head coach
- “I’m just for whatever coach says,” — Patrick Mahomes
Why It Matters
Keeping Mahomes out of preseason games allows the Chiefs to protect a quarterback who is seven months post-surgery while accelerating the development of backup talent. The strategy also reduces the risk of re-injury in contests that do not affect regular-season standings.
What’s Next
The Chiefs will evaluate Mahomes daily as the regular season approaches, with the primary goal of having him ready for the September 14, 2026 home opener against the Denver Broncos. Should Mahomes remain sidelined for the preseason, the backup quarterbacks are expected to log the majority of snaps in the August exhibitions.
