After suffering a season-ending knee injury, the Chiefs superstar outlines his rehab journey and vows to return stronger for Kansas City’s 2026 campaign
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has shared his mindset and long-term plan following the ACL injury that ended his 2025 season, reaffirming his commitment to returning stronger and leading the franchise back to the top of the NFL.
Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee late in the Chiefs’ Week 15 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, a defeat that not only cost Kansas City the game but also eliminated the Chiefs from playoff contention, the first time since Mahomes became the starter that Kansas City has missed the postseason.
In the aftermath of the injury, Mahomes took to his social media account to address Chiefs Kingdom directly, saying, “Don’t know why this had to happen… And not going to lie, it hurts.”
He emphasized his faith and work ethic, writing that all he and the organization could do from that point onward was “trust in God and attack every single day over and over again.” Mahomes concluded his message with a vow that “I will be back stronger than ever,” echoing a theme of resilience he’s shown throughout his career.
Surgery, Rehab and His Road Back
Shortly after the injury was confirmed via MRI, Mahomes underwent successful surgery in Dallas to repair the torn ligaments. The Chiefs confirmed that he would begin his rehabilitation immediately, and head coach Andy Reid and the team’s medical staff have described Mahomes’ approach to rehab as relentless and focused.
Chiefs vice president of sports medicine Rick Burkholder noted that while the typical recovery timeline for this type of injury is around nine months, Mahomes’ disciplined routine, competitive mentality and access to top-tier training support could help him make an efficient comeback. That timeline could put him back on the field near the start of the 2026 season, a target Mahomes himself has publicly embraced.
What’s Next for Mahomes and the Chiefs
Despite the setback, Mahomes has remained actively engaged with his teammates, sending encouragement to the quarterback room as backup Gardner Minshew prepares to lead the offense in his absence. His leadership is expected to remain a central piece of the Chiefs’ identity, even while rehabbing.
For Mahomes, the “ultimate plan” is clear: dedicated rehab, a return to full strength, and reclaiming his status as one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. With his competitive fire and history of overcoming adversity, he’s making no secret of his intention to not just return, but to do so better than ever.
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