Full Breakdown
Mahomes Skips Chiefs Preseason Opener as Reid Sets Quarterback Rotation
8/13/2026, 10:40:01 PM
Core Event
The Kansas City Chiefs confirmed that starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes will not suit up for the team’s first preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams. Head coach Andy Reid announced that Mahomes will sit out the Saturday contest, with the quarterback duties allocated to backups Justin Fields, Garrett Nussmeier, and Chris Oladokun.
Background & Context
Mahomes suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) in the final weeks of the 2025 season. The injury required surgery and a rehabilitation period that typically spans nine months. By the start of the 2026 preseason, Mahomes is roughly eight months into his recovery and has participated fully in training-camp drills, though he has avoided full-contact work. Coaches and teammates have praised his progress, but Reid emphasized caution ahead of the regular season.
Quarterback Rotation Plan
Reid outlined a three-quarterback rotation for the opener:
- Justin Fields – the primary backup, acquired via trade, will receive the first snaps.
- Garrett Nussmeier – a seventh-round rookie from LSU, will follow Fields.
- Chris Oladokun – who saw limited action in the 2025 regular season, will finish the rotation.
Reid indicated the plan is designed to give the younger players live-game reps while monitoring Mahomes’ readiness for Week 1 of the regular season.
Official Statements & Responses
Reid told reporters that the decision reflects a “more conservative preseason plan” for the two-time NFL MVP, noting that Mahomes has been practicing without much contact and that the team wants to avoid rushing his return. He added that the rotation will be evaluated as the preseason progresses, with the possibility of Mahomes seeing action in later games still uncertain.
Mahomes, when asked about his status, said he is “for whatever coach says” and will continue to prepare as if he will play, leaving the final decision to Reid.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The way the rotation will go is Pat won't start or play,” — Andy Reid, head coach
- “It’ll be Justin, and then Nussmeier, and then Chris will take it from there,” — Andy Reid, head coach
- “I don’t know if I’ll play (Mahomes) in the second or third game,” — Andy Reid, head coach
- “It should be a good test for our young guys to have an opportunity to get out there and play,” — Andy Reid, head coach
- “I mean, there’s a pretty good chance where I don’t play him,” — Andy Reid, head coach
What’s Next
After the Rams matchup, the Chiefs travel to Tampa Bay to face the Buccaneers in their second preseason game, followed by a final contest against the Seattle Seahawks back in Kansas City. Those games will provide additional opportunities for the backup quarterbacks and for Reid to assess Mahomes’ readiness before the regular season begins.
