Mahomes cleared for full Chiefs training camp duties following knee surgery
Patrick Mahomes has been medically cleared to participate without restrictions in Kansas City Chiefs training camp, with head coach Andy Reid confirming no limits on his repetitions as the team prepares for the September 14 clash with the Denver Broncos.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been medically cleared to fully participate in training camp following surgery to repair torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) in his left knee. The clearance was confirmed by the Chiefs' medical staff and Dr Dan Cooper, the Dallas Cowboys' head team physician who performed the surgery, two days before the team's arrival at Missouri Western State University in St Joseph, Missouri.
Mahomes, who has been undergoing rehabilitation in Kansas City, stated he feels "amazing" and stronger than ever. He plans to continue wearing a compression sleeve and a brace on his left leg during practices. For the first time since his injury in December, Mahomes will practice alongside top skill position players, including running back Kenneth Walker III, tight end Travis Kelce, and receivers Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Tyquan Thornton.
Head coach Andy Reid plans no limitations on Mahomes' repetitions, with the quarterback expected to lead the first-team offense during 11-on-11 repetitions throughout camp. Mahomes recently demonstrated to medical staff his ability to run, cut, and change directions to protect himself around teammates, aiming to show improved movement within the pocket and sharper decision-making ahead of the season opener.
Mahomes received advice and encouragement from former NFL stars Tom Brady and Tyrann Mathieu, both of whom returned to All-Pro form after sustaining torn ACLs. He intends to use the camp practices to demonstrate to the medical and coaching staff that he can operate the offense as it is supposed to be run, with the goal of being ready for the regular season.
The Chiefs must decide whether Mahomes will play in one of the first two preseason games, though his primary focus remains preparation for the regular season opener against the Denver Broncos on 14 September. Throughout his nine-year career, Mahomes has never missed the entire preseason, and he expressed a desire to test his knee in game conditions if it continues to progress well.
