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It appears Patrick Mahomes’ season-ending knee injury is worse than initially thought after successful surgery Monday.
However, the Kansas City Chiefs superstar quarterback is still expected to be on the same on-field recovery schedule next year.
Mahomes reportedly tore his LCL as well as his ACL, according to NFL Network. Separating ligaments can complicate recovery, but the report adds that doesn’t necessarily mean Mahomes’ rehabilitation will last longer than nine months.
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Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes throws a pass against the Los Angeles Chargers on Dec. 14, 2025, at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. (Scott Winters/Sportswire Icon)
The Chiefs announced Monday that Mahomes, their 30-year-old franchise quarterback, immediately underwent surgery in Dallas by Dr. Dan Cooper to repair torn ligaments.
The announcement made no mention of another torn ligament, although reporters attempted to ask Andy Reid if there was anything else going on before the surgery.
PATRICK MAHOMES SUSTAINS BRUTAL KNEE INJURY AS CHEADS ELIMINATED FROM PLAYOFF CONTENTION
“That’s exactly what they put out,” Reid said of his team’s announcement. “We’re trying not to hide too much from you, right? It’s not our game. I’m trying to keep it upfront with you, so this is the information they had and they released it to you.”
Reid was also asked if Mahomes was going to get a second opinion on his injury, although the immediate surgery shows he and the team wanted it done as quickly as possible to begin the recovery process.
This process will be a long one for Mahomes, but Reid is confident in his quarterback to do what’s necessary to ensure he doesn’t miss any time next season.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes grabs his knee after being injured during the Los Angeles Chargers game Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
“I know the rehab process and I’m sure he’ll get through it, and I know he’ll come out strong,” Reid said. “As we progress here, we learn a lot about our team. Some young people have opportunities to play, we will finish this season strong and with effort.”
After Mahomes was injured in the fourth quarter, backup Gardner Minshew failed to bring the offense within field goal range for Harrison Butker to attempt a potential field goal in overtime. With the 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, the Chiefs were eliminated from the playoffs.
This will be the first time since 2014 that the Chiefs have not made the playoffs, and many view this as the end of the “dynasty” that went to three straight Super Bowl appearances, winning two before losing to the Philadelphia Eagles last year.
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The Chiefs will evaluate their roster over the next three games, including Minshew starting the rest of the game under center. But all eyes will be on Mahomes this offseason, as it’s a bitter end to a roller coaster season for Kansas City.
