KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is reportedly on track to take the field in Week 1 against the Denver Broncos, marking a significant return after his December surgery to repair torn ligaments in his left knee.
Mahomes, a two-time NFL MVP, has been vocal about his determination to be ready for the start of the season. Initially, medical professionals suggested that he might not return until October, but Mahomes has exceeded expectations during his rehabilitation, consistently participating with the first team throughout training camp.
While Mahomes did not see any action in the preseason, this was a strategic decision rather than a setback. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Mahomes will continue practicing as the team prepares for their upcoming matchup. "These are more like practice here, a lot of one-versus-one play these next couple of days. That’s a good thing," Reid stated after the team's first practice following roster cuts.
The Chiefs are scheduled for another practice on Thursday before a long weekend break, after which they will enter their game-week routine leading up to the highly anticipated Monday night clash against the Broncos. This game is particularly crucial as both teams are considered strong contenders for the AFC West title this season.
One of the lingering questions surrounding Mahomes' return is whether his lack of preseason game experience will impact his performance. The only other time he went through an entire preseason without playing was during the pandemic, when all exhibition games were canceled.
Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy expressed confidence in Mahomes’ readiness, noting their offseason work together. "Me and Pat, we’ve kind of been working this offseason, the timing and stuff you need to work on. I feel like when it’s time to play, we’ll all be ready," Worthy said. He also praised Mahomes' work ethic, stating, "His will and want-to is beyond anything I’ve ever seen. He kind of leads the team in that way."
As the Chiefs prepare for the season opener, the status of their offensive line remains a concern. Left tackle Josh Simmons was absent from practice on Wednesday due to a persistent back injury, prompting the team to adjust their lineup. Undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson has been filling in, alongside Jaylon Moore, who has also been getting first-team reps.
In light of the injury issues along the offensive front, including guard Trey Smith's hip injury, the Chiefs have made roster moves to bolster their depth. They traded a conditional sixth-round pick to the Baltimore Ravens for rookie Diego Pounds and acquired Joshua Ezeudu from the New York Giants for a seventh-round selection.
Reid acknowledged the challenges these new players face in adjusting to the Chiefs' system, stating, "It’s just a matter of them getting adjusted to everything, from the snap count to the plays to the calls to the pass protection. It was great to get them in there. There were a couple of hiccups in there but for the most part they did a great job."
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