Broncos brace for Mahomes in his return as Chiefs host Monday night opener

Englewood, Colo. (AP) — The Denver Broncos may have an advantage in their Monday night opener against the Kansas City Chiefs, as Patrick Mahomes will be playing in his first game back from a torn ACL injury sustained in December. Denver's defensive coordinator Vance Joseph stated that Mahomes will be himself, having had a good summer and spring while rehabbing.

The Broncos will open their defense of the AFC West title at Arrowhead Stadium, where the Chiefs aim to rebound from their first losing season under coach Andy Reid since 2013. Mahomes suffered the injury during a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is also recovering from a season-ending broken right ankle, having made a brief appearance in the preseason.

Broncos coach Sean Payton mentioned that preparation for both Mahomes and Nix is the same as always, with coaches confident in their abilities. The Chiefs' defensive line will face a challenge from Mahomes, who is known for his mobility and inability to lose to Denver at Arrowhead. The Chiefs will rely on new running backs Kenneth Walker and rookie Emmett Johnson to take some pressure off Mahomes, as they have shown a commitment to the running game in the offseason.