With just three weeks until their Week 1 matchup against the Denver Broncos on “Monday Night Football,” the Kansas City Chiefs remain uncertain about quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ readiness to play. Head coach Andy Reid informed reporters on Monday that while Mahomes’ recovery is progressing well, he cannot confirm whether the two-time MVP will play against the Broncos.
“He’s doing great,” Reid said. “We’ll just see. I’m taking it day by day. There are no predictions here on anything. But if the doctors, the trainers, and everyone involved give him an OK — and most importantly, if he feels ready — then we’ll make the decision when we get there.”
Mahomes himself has repeatedly asserted his intention to play in Week 1. He is recovering from a significant ACL injury sustained in Week 15 of the previous season. Should he play in the season opener, it will signify a nine-month recovery period, which is considered swift for an ACL injury.
Despite some concerns that Mahomes might appear rusty upon returning, Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees expressed confidence that Mahomes will perform at his previous level. “I think there’s no doubt that physiologically Patrick Mahomes is fine,” Brees remarked to TMZ. “There’s certainly that mental hurdle to overcome, to affirm: ‘Hey, I can handle physical hits, and I can unreservedly engage in play.’”
Brees continued by expressing, “I’m confident that the best of Patrick Mahomes is still ahead of us.” This optimistic prediction comes as Mahomes approaches his 31st birthday, post-surgery, with questions looming about the Chiefs’ wide receiver lineup.
Many analysts believe Mahomes will need to deliver standout performances to lead the team back to the Super Bowl. Last season, before his injury, Mahomes accumulated 3,587 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. The team has undergone changes, with offensive coordinator Matt Nagy replaced by Eric Bieniemy, who was instrumental during some of Mahomes’ most successful seasons.