Patrick Mahomes Begins Rehab at Home in Kansas City After Knee Surgery, Eyes Week 1 Return

For the first time since joining the Kansas City Chiefs in 2017, quarterback Patrick Mahomes will spend the postseason at home in Kansas City. Following surgery on December 15 to repair a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee, Mahomes has already begun an intensive rehabilitation program, signaling his commitment to returning for the 2026 season.

Head coach Andy Reid provided an update on Mahomes’ progress, emphasizing the quarterback’s focus and dedication to recovery. “First of all, he’s doing great for just being three weeks out or so,” Reid said. “He’ll go ahead and most likely stay up here for the majority of the time rehabbing. He and Julie (Frymyer), she’s the person who does all that RPT (rehab physical therapy), and so he has a lot of trust in her, and he’s been just in there grinding.”

Mahomes’ rehabilitation will take place primarily in Kansas City, marking a departure from his typical offseason routine. Normally, Mahomes spends his offseason in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, training under Bobby Stroupe at the Athlete Performance Enhancement Center (APEC). This year, the proximity to Chiefs staff, medical professionals, and rehab specialists provides an added layer of support during a critical recovery period.

Coach Reid noted that the early stages of Mahomes’ rehab are intense and demanding, both physically and mentally. “I think they’ll just continue till we get started again. Not that he won’t take a break here or there, but right now, he’s in that early process where you’ve got to really hit it hard. And, you know, it’s not necessarily a fun thing to do every day. The important thing is that you show up, and that you keep coming, coming back for more, and he’s been doing that,” Reid said.

Despite the seriousness of the injury, Mahomes’ outlook is positive. A torn ACL and LCL represent a significant setback for any athlete, but advances in modern sports medicine, combined with Mahomes’ work ethic and previous experience with rehab, suggest a strong chance of a full recovery. The quarterback’s goal is clear: return in time for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season.

Mahomes has consistently demonstrated a rare combination of durability, resilience, and commitment throughout his career. Since being drafted by Kansas City in 2017, he has become the face of the franchise, winning a Super Bowl, an MVP award, and multiple playoff appearances. His leadership extends beyond the field, influencing teammates, staff, and the broader Chiefs organization.

Rehab will be a critical focus for Mahomes not only physically but also mentally. Recovering from a knee injury of this magnitude requires meticulous attention to strength training, flexibility, and stability exercises to ensure the ligaments heal correctly and the knee can handle the demands of an NFL season. Chiefs staff will work closely with Mahomes, monitoring progress and adjusting exercises to prevent setbacks.

While the offseason usually includes workouts, travel, and appearances, this year’s routine is centered entirely on rehabilitation and long-term recovery. Mahomes’ return to Kansas City for rehab underscores the organization’s dedication to providing a structured environment for their franchise quarterback.

This rehabilitation period also coincides with a Chiefs offseason marked by transition and roster evaluation. With the 2025 season ending at 6-11, Kansas City is facing questions at multiple positions, and Mahomes’ health will directly influence the team’s draft strategy, free-agent priorities, and long-term planning. The quarterback’s return timeline will be factored into all roster moves, as the Chiefs seek to rebuild depth while maintaining their championship aspirations.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. Mahomes’ ability to return to pre-injury form is pivotal for Kansas City, as his presence defines the offense and sets the tone for the team’s approach to the 2026 season. Historically, Mahomes has shown resilience in the face of adversity, including injuries, intense playoff runs, and the pressures of sustaining a championship-level team.

Reid’s comments signal confidence not only in Mahomes’ physical recovery but also in his mental toughness. “He’s been just in there grinding,” Reid said, highlighting the quarterback’s dedication to the often grueling rehabilitation process. Success will require patience, persistence, and support from the Chiefs’ medical and training staff.

If Mahomes achieves a full recovery, he is expected to lead Kansas City from Week 1, providing stability, experience, and elite playmaking ability. However, the organization is likely to monitor his progress carefully throughout the offseason to ensure long-term health and peak performance.

In conclusion, Patrick Mahomes’ rehabilitation in Kansas City represents a pivotal moment for both the quarterback and the franchise. As he works toward a Week 1 return, the Chiefs are balancing short-term recovery needs with long-term strategic planning, while ensuring that their star player receives the support and resources necessary to return stronger than ever.

For now, Chiefs Nation can take solace in knowing that Mahomes is focused, committed, and surrounded by experts in a controlled environment—preparing for the next chapter of his already historic career.