Sports Desk | By Ayan Irfan
KANSAS CITY — Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has indicated that star quarterback Patrick Mahomes is unlikely to play in any preseason games this year as he continues recovering from major knee surgery.
Reid said there is a “pretty good chance” Mahomes will not feature in the preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams and suggested he may also sit out the remaining exhibition games to avoid unnecessary risks before the regular season.
Chiefs Taking a Cautious Approach
Mahomes underwent surgery after suffering ACL and LCL tears in his left knee late last season. While his rehabilitation has progressed well, the Chiefs appear determined to prioritize his long-term health over preseason action.
Reid’s plan would allow backup quarterbacks—including Justin Fields, rookie Garrett Nussmeier and Chris Oladokun—to receive valuable game reps before the regular season begins.
Focus Remains on Week 1
Despite the possibility of missing the entire preseason, there is growing optimism inside the organization that Mahomes will be available for the Chiefs’ regular-season opener.
The coaching staff has repeatedly emphasized that the priority is ensuring the franchise quarterback is fully fit rather than rushing him back for exhibition games.
What It Means for Kansas City
Resting Mahomes throughout preseason would be a major change for fans hoping to see him return to competitive action, but it reflects a broader NFL trend of protecting elite quarterbacks from unnecessary injury risks.
The Chiefs believe meaningful snaps for their backup quarterbacks could strengthen roster depth while allowing Mahomes to continue his recovery without added pressure.
Why It Matters
Kansas City’s Super Bowl hopes depend heavily on Mahomes’ health.
If sitting out the preseason helps ensure he is fully ready for Week 1, the Chiefs are likely to view the decision as a worthwhile trade-off—even if it means fans won’t see their star quarterback until the games truly count.