Patrick Mahomes’ injury update raises fresh concerns ahead of Chiefs’ new season

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has announced that star quarterback Patrick Mahomes will not participate in the team's upcoming preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This decision follows the Chiefs' opening pre-season loss to the Los Angeles Rams, during which Mahomes was absent. Reid is safeguarding his franchise quarterback, and for good reason - Mahomes is recovering from a severe knee injury.

Mahomes will be replaced by Justin Fields, who is expected to play into the second quarter of the game. Trey Smith, Josh Simmons, and Ashton Gillotte will also sit out the match. The reasoning behind this choice is clear: Mahomes suffered a complete tear of his ACL and significant damage to the LCL while scrambling in the fourth quarter of a December 14, 2025 game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

He underwent surgery to reattach the torn ligaments and has been in recovery for seven months. Despite being cleared for full contact at the start of the training camp, Mahomes has been cautious, wearing a brace on his left knee. By keeping him out of at least two pre-season games, Reid eliminates any risk of further contact before the regular season.

The Chiefs' next match is against the Seattle Seahawks at Arrowhead Stadium on Friday, August 28. However, the more significant date is September 14, when the Chiefs will host the Denver Broncos in their regular season opener.