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Patrick Mahomes prepares for Chiefs season opener against Denver Broncos

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 7:32 PM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Patrick Mahomes prepares for Chiefs season opener against Denver Broncos

Summary

The Kansas City Chiefs expect quarterback Patrick Mahomes to start their 2026 season opener against the Denver Broncos. Mahomes has completed his recovery from a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee sustained during a game on December 14, 2025. While head coach Andy Reid confirmed the intention for him to start, Dan Orlovsky identified significant concerns regarding the matchup against Denver's defensive front. The Broncos led the league with 68 sacks during the 2025 season. Kansas City faces additional personnel uncertainty, as starting left tackle Josh Simmons is unlikely to play due to a back injury, potentially forcing rookie Kahlil Benson into the starting lineup.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Patrick Mahomes is expected to start for the Chiefs despite an ACL and LCL injury.
•The Broncos recorded a franchise-record 68 sacks during the 2025 season.
•Chiefs left tackle Josh Simmons is unlikely to play due to a back injury.
•Jonathon Cooper remains on the Commissioner’s Exempt List for the Broncos.
•Kansas City finished the 2025 season missing the playoffs after losing their final six games.

Latest Updates

7:32 PMYahoo Sports — ‘Never Take Greatness for Granted’ — Ex-NFL QB Has ‘Significant Concerns’ About Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs vs. Broncos

What they're saying

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Patrick Mahomes has cleared the biggest hurdle of his comeback. The Kansas City Chiefs expect him to start their 2026 opener against the Denver Broncos, nine months after tearing the ACL and LCL in his left knee.
— Yahoo Sports

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