Patrick Mahomes likely to skip entire 2026 preseason

Patrick Mahomes preseason outlook after knee injury

Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs, is unlikely to play in any of the team's three preseason games, according to head coach Andy Reid.

Reid spoke Friday at training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri. On the preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams on August 15, Reid said: "There's a pretty good chance I don't play him. Percentages are leaning that way." He extended that logic to the rest of the preseason: "I don't know if I'll play him the second or third game. I don't know that. The percentages probably lean against doing that."

Reid's stated reason is straightforward. With new quarterbacks behind Mahomes on the depth chart, the backups need the reps. "We've got new people in those other positions behind him that need some work, and so the more reps they get, the better," Reid said.

Does this mean Mahomes is hurt?

No. Mahomes has been cleared for full training camp participation, including padded 11-on-11 work, after tearing his ACL and LCL in his left knee in a Week 15 game against the Los Angeles Chargers in December 2025. He had surgery the following day in Dallas.

Sitting out the preseason is a precaution, not a setback. Reid is managing Mahomes' ramp-up after a major knee surgery, not signaling any new injury concern.

What this means for your fantasy roster

The Chiefs are fully expecting Mahomes to start Week 1 at home against the Denver Broncos, per The Athletic. That is the only game that matters for redraft leagues.

If you hold Mahomes in a dynasty league, his preseason absence is a management decision, not a health red flag. He is practicing in pads. Monitor any change in Reid's tone heading into the regular season, but right now there is no reason to adjust your valuation based on preseason inactivity.