Patrick Mahomes begins recovery with optimism in Kansas City

Patrick Mahomes saw his 2025 campaign end abruptly after knee surgery. The procedure repaired two torn ligaments and closed the year for the quarterback, but it also opened the door to a recovery process that began with encouraging news.

The two-time MVP started rehab just days after surgery. Internal reports suggest the franchise believes Patrick Mahomes could be ready even for the start of the 2026 season, a scenario that once looked distant but now feels possible.

The medical perspective

Patrick Mahomes has the backing of Chiefs vice president of sports medicine Rick Burkholder, who explained that every player responds differently to these injuries. He noted that the standard timeline is nine months, but with Mahomes’ discipline, cutting that down wouldn’t be surprising.

Patrick Mahomes has begun rehab following surgery to repair two torn ligaments in his left knee, and the team is optimistic the two-time MVP could be back early next season — perhaps even by Week 1.

Story via @AP:https://t.co/sedMTtl7Ob

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 18, 2025

The plan will be led by Julie Frymyer, the same therapist who helped Patrick Mahomes fight through a high ankle sprain during the 2023 playoffs without missing a game. That history strengthens confidence that this rehab will succeed.

Tom Brady’s advice

Patrick Mahomes also received encouragement from Tom Brady. The legendary quarterback spoke on the Let’s Go! podcast and praised Mahomes’ toughness and resilience. For Brady, the injury is both a physical and mental challenge, and the key is staying focused on what lies ahead.

His message to Patrick Mahomes was sharp and simple: “The only thing you can do is focus on what’s ahead and not look back.” That philosophy helped Brady return from his own knee injury and win more titles.

What’s at stake for the Chiefs

Patrick Mahomes will not return this season, and the loss to the Chargers already knocked the team out of the playoffs. After a decade of success, the franchise must rethink its strategy and protect its star better, as he has absorbed more hits than any other quarterback in recent years.

According to Essentiallysports, Kansas City’s immediate future depends on how Mahomes’ recovery unfolds. The hope is that his comeback marks a new chapter and puts the Chiefs back in the title race.