One of the major storylines of the 2026 offseason in the NFL is the injury rehab of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
In Week 15 of the 2025 season, Mahomes tore the ACL and LCL in his left knee. Since it happened so late in the year, many have wondered if he’ll be ready to play in Week 1 of 2026. Apparently, that question extends all the way to the White House.
Donald Trump Inquires About Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes’ Knee Recovery
Kansas City is famous for its many barbecue restaurants. Among the best in the area is Slaps BBQ on Central Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas. The owners of Slaps, brothers Mike and Joe Pearce, recently visited President Trump at the White House.
While talking with the Pearce’s, Trump checked in on Mahomes’ injury rehab.
“Most importantly, how is Mahomes doing?” Trump asked.
“He’s going to be okay,” the brothers responded.
“You tell the people we love him,” Trump continued. “He’s going to be okay. I hate to see that. So he will start Game 1 you think?”
“We’re hoping,” the brothers answered.
“He’s going to be close, right?” Trump said. “He’s a fantastic guy. Say hello to him for me.”
This past weekend coach Andy Reid told the media he believes Mahomes will participate in some fashion during offseason OTAs later this month.
“He is in a good position to be able to do some things,” Reid said. “There’s some rules and regulations that go with that, so we got to just make sure that we’re on top of that part. If he can do some things, remember Phase 2 there’s no contact. There’s no offense versus defense. It’s Phase 3 that you get into that. Once you start the clock, then the clock’s got to be rolling, so you have to evaluate what you want to do there. He’s in a position where he can do everything, I think.”
Chiefs’ Offseason Has Been Geared Towards Making Patrick Mahomes’ Life Easier
GettyChiefs RB Kenneth Walker III
Kansas City’s biggest move of the offseason was the free agent signing of running back Kenneth Walker III. All signs are pointing toward the Chiefs committing to the run more than they ever have since the days of Jamaal Charles. General manager Brett Veach admitted as much just a few weeks ago.
“We don’t want him (Mahomes) dropping back 50-60 times a game to start the season,” Veach said. “With EB (offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy) coming back here, with his running back roots, there’s going to be a high priority with the run game.”
Veach went on to say that he expects the Chiefs’ offense to embrace a power rushing attack behind its talented and physical offensive line.
“Everyone knows the potential and flashes that Josh (left tackle Josh Simmons) has shown,” Veach said. “On the interior with Kingsley (left guard Kingsley Suamataia), Trey (right guard Trey Smith), and Creed (center Creed Humphrey), I think it would be a smart play to take advantage of that interior trio, to be more violent and utilize those guys and their strengths. When you add a guy like Ken Walker, that’s why he was so attractive to us. He has explosive speed, and he can do damage in the pass game.”
Donald Trump Checks in on Patrick Mahomes’ Injury Rehab