Patrick Mahomes cleared for full practice after knee injury, consulted with other players
Mahomes’ Recovery and Consultations
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been cleared for full participation in practice, marking a significant step in his recovery from a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee. Mahomes sustained the injury during a game on December 14 and underwent surgery the following day. His return to full practice comes a little over seven months after the surgery.
During his rehabilitation process, Mahomes sought advice from several players who had experienced similar knee injuries. Among those he consulted was Tom Brady, who also tore the ACL and MCL in his left knee during a season opener in 2008. Brady went on to win Comeback Player of the Year in 2009.
Mahomes emphasized the importance of these conversations, stating that they helped him understand the long and demanding nature of the recovery. He noted that staying diligent with the rehabilitation was crucial. He recalled the difficulty of watching his team play while he was sidelined, but maintained his focus on working towards being cleared for practice and eventually for regular season play.
In addition to Brady, Mahomes spoke with former Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu and veteran tight end Zach Ertz. Mathieu had torn the ACL and LCL in his left knee in 2013 and experienced another ACL tear in 2015. Ertz also tore his ACL approximately a week before Mahomes’ injury, providing a contemporary perspective on the recovery process.
Mahomes and Ertz developed a competitive dynamic during their rehabilitation. They would compare their progress, sharing details about their deadlift weights and sending each other videos of their training. Mahomes described how Ertz would send clips of himself jumping and performing acceleration drills, while Mahomes would later send videos of himself cutting and similar activities. This friendly competition helped maintain motivation during the solitary aspects of rehab.
Chiefs’ Outlook for the Upcoming Season
The Chiefs are looking to rebound from a disappointing 2025 NFL season, where they missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014. The team concluded the season with a 6-11 record, largely impacted by Mahomes’ season-ending injury during a Week 15 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.
With Chiefs players set to report to training camp on July 28, and the first open practice scheduled for the following day, Mahomes’ health is a primary concern for the team. Head coach Andy Reid confirmed Mahomes’ clearance for full practice, though he noted the team would continue to monitor him closely. Reid stated that Mahomes is cleared to participate in all periods of practice.
The team had previously exercised caution with Mahomes’ recovery, keeping him out of 11-on-11 full-team drills during spring OTAs and mandatory minicamp. Despite the clearance for full participation, Reid indicated that the team plans to keep a “close eye” on the quarterback.
Reid expressed optimism about Mahomes being ready to start Week 1 against the Denver Broncos, while also emphasizing a day-by-day approach to the recovery process. The return of the two-time NFL MVP to the practice field is seen as an encouraging sign for the Chiefs, particularly as it allows him to build chemistry with the offensive unit, which now includes Super Bowl LX MVP running back Kenneth Walker.
The team’s championship aspirations are bolstered by Mahomes’ progress, as his presence in practice facilitates better coordination with his teammates. The focus remains on his continued recovery and preparation for the start of the regular season.
The Rehabilitation Journey
Mahomes’ journey through rehabilitation highlighted the mental and physical challenges of recovering from a significant injury. His conversations with other athletes provided a network of support and shared experience.
The competitive element introduced by Ertz helped Mahomes push through the demanding physical therapy sessions. This dynamic ensured that Mahomes remained engaged and motivated throughout the extensive recovery period, which can often feel isolating.
Mahomes’ clearance for full practice is a key milestone for both the player and the Chiefs as they prepare for the upcoming season, aiming to improve upon their previous performance.
Source: nbcsports.com
