Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes will pursue a second medical evaluation on his torn left ACL before undergoing surgery, head coach Andy Reid confirmed Monday, leaving uncertainty about the star’s availability for the start of next NFL season.
Mahomes suffered the injury late in Sunday’s 16–13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium, a defeat that also brought an end to Kansas City’s decade-long run of postseason appearances. The team later confirmed the diagnosis, calling the injury season-ending.
Injury Occurred in Final Minutes
The two-time NFL MVP was hurt in the closing moments of the game while attempting to extend the play under pressure. He was spun to the turf as the Chiefs made a final push to keep their playoff hopes alive. Following the loss, the Chiefs were officially eliminated after other results across the league did not fall in their favor.
Mahomes is expected to consult with Dr. Dan Cooper, a respected orthopedic surgeon and team physician for the Dallas Cowboys. According to Reid, the second opinion is intended to confirm the treatment plan rather than suggest uncertainty about the diagnosis.
Timeline for Return Still Unclear
Recovery from an ACL tear typically ranges from six to 12 months, depending on the severity of the injury and whether additional damage occurred within the knee. Reid said Mahomes is handling the situation with his usual competitiveness and resolve.
“He’s in a good place mentally,” Reid said during a video conference. “He always feels responsible, but now the focus is on surgery and then attacking the rehab process.”
Several high-profile quarterbacks have returned successfully from similar injuries. Joe Burrow came back from an ACL and MCL tear to earn NFL Comeback Player of the Year honors, while Tom Brady returned from a torn ACL to win league MVP the following season.
Chiefs’ Quarterback Situation
Mahomes, 30, has largely avoided major injuries throughout his career. His previous setbacks include a kneecap dislocation in 2019 and a high ankle sprain during the 2022 playoffs—an injury he famously played through en route to a Super Bowl victory.
Kansas City currently does not have another quarterback under contract for next season, making the final weeks of the current campaign an opportunity for veteran backup Gardner Minshew. Minshew replaced Mahomes against the Chargers but threw a late interception that sealed the loss.
Despite the setback, Reid expressed confidence in the team’s depth at the position, citing trust in both Minshew and reserve quarterback Chris Oladokun.
As Mahomes prepares for surgery and rehabilitation, the Chiefs face an offseason defined by recovery, roster decisions, and the challenge of rebounding after an uncharacteristic early exit.
