Chiefs' Andy Reid Updates Patrick Mahomes' Injury Recovery, Hypes Justin Fields After Jets Trade

Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been a regular presence at the team's facility as he recovers from his torn ACL.

Coach Andy Reid told NFL Media's Judy Battista that Mahomes is "doing great."

"He spends a ton of time in the building," Reid said. "... He's in there for seven hours a day. It's showing, the progress. Now, to tell you a timeline? I mean, I know what he's striving for. We'll just see where it goes from there."

Kansas City covered its bases by acquiring Justin Fields from the New York Jets.

"Well, we snuck out and got a good quarterback to back him up," Reid said of Fields. "So, if he doesn't, you know, if he's not able to make it for the beginning of the season, then we know we've got a legitimate backup there that can go win games for us."

Mahomes' 2025 season came to an end in Week 15, as he suffered the knee injury during Kansas City's 16-13 defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Chargers. He underwent surgery the following day.

Despite the significant injury, Mahomes previously confirmed that he's looking to be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported this week that the two-time MVP was "progressing" in his recovery from the ACL tear and was "tracking" to be ready for the beginning of next season.

Mahomes didn't experience many issues with availability prior to his latest injury, as he only missed two total games from 2021-24.

While it would be understandable for the Chiefs to take a patient approach with his rehab, the team is also looking to return to the playoffs next season after a disappointing 6-11 finish in 2025.

In 14 games prior to the injury, Mahomes completed 62.7 percent of his throws for 3,587 yards and 22 touchdowns compared to 11 interceptions. His 68.5 QBR ranked No. 6 among 28 qualified quarterbacks during the regular season, via ESPN.

If Mahomes isn't ready by the time the opening week rolls around, Fields can fill in under center for the Chiefs.