Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes returned to the practice field this week after being cleared to participate in training camp in full, but some fans are still worried about the condition of his surgically repaired leg.
Mahomes underwent surgery in December to repair a torn ACL, an injury that ended his season as the Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade. While Mahomes has hit all of his milestones and remains on track to start in Week 1, some fans expressed concern at the appearance of his leg as he arrived for training camp.
Patrick Mahomes Sparked Fears of Injury Recovery
As Mahomes walked with teammates to start training camp on Saturday, some fans speculated that his surgically repaired leg appeared to have lost some muscle mass.
"Mahomes has a skinny leg," shared Jeff Mueller, an NFL injury analyst, in a post on X.
"Anyone see some muscle atrophy or is it me," another fan shared on X.
But others disagreed, noting that both of Mahomes' legs appeared to be a similar size. Many worries were also addressed when the Chiefs quarterback took to practice, looking strong in his throws and light on his feet. The Chiefs had a limited start to training camp on Saturday, with quarterbacks and rookies reporting, along with some other positions.
Mahomes' injury history is notable. Before the ACL tear, he had suffered a high-ankle sprain in the 2023 playoffs and a dislocated kneecap in 2019. Each time, he returned to superstar form. However, ACL recovery is often more complex, requiring months of rehabilitation to regain strength, stability, and confidence.
The quarterback himself acknowledged the mental aspect of coming back. "You just have to build that confidence back, and I'm glad I get to do that from Day 1 of training camp," Mahomes said, via Fox Sports. "I didn't want to have to get only a couple of weeks of practice in and then have to go play a game. I wanted to build it up, see how training camp goes as we gradually build, and so I think that'll help me get back to where I need to be."
Medical experts often note that visible muscle atrophy is common after major knee surgery, especially when a patient has been non-weight-bearing or limited in activity for weeks. Regaining quad and calf size can take months of targeted strengthening. The fact that Mahomes is moving well in practice is a positive sign, though concerns about his long-term mobility remain.
Chiefs Expected to Take Careful Approach With Patrick Mahomes
The Chiefs do not appear rushed in getting Mahomes back into action, even though he was cleared to fully participate in training camp. ESPN reporter Nate Taylor speculated that the team would keep him out of all three preseason games, which would be a first for Mahomes in his career.
Mahomes will have the chance to keep going slow, with the team going through the weekend and early portion of training camp without pads.
Mahomes said he felt good after the first practice on Saturday, noting that he's working on getting comfortable again after a long rehab process.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said it was good for Mahomes and some of his teammates to get an extra time. Reid had often called an early start for rookies and quarterbacks, reviving the practice this year.
"I didn't like not doing it last year after I got done with it, to be honest with you," Reid said, via Fox Sports. "It's a good thing for the quarterbacks, good thing for the rookies coming in. We do have more numbers (of rookies) this year, so it allows us to get more reps. I think that will benefit us."
The Chiefs' cautious approach reflects both their respect for Mahomes' importance and the recognition that rushing him back from ACL surgery could have long-term consequences. Many quarterbacks have struggled after returning too quickly from similar injuries, including Carson Wentz, Robert Griffin III, and even Tom Brady early in his career.
Mahomes is arguably the most valuable player in the NFL, and his health is paramount to the Chiefs' success. In 2025, before his injury, Mahomes had thrown for over 4,800 yards with 38 touchdowns and completed 67% of his passes. His ability to extend plays with his legs has been a hallmark of his game, and even a slight loss in mobility could affect the offense.
The Chiefs have made several offseason moves to support Mahomes. They drafted a new running back, Kenneth Walker III, who is expected to provide a dynamic element in the passing game. They also signed a veteran left tackle to shore up protection. The team is hopeful that Mahomes will be able to adapt his playing style if needed, relying more on quick reads and pocket awareness rather than frantic scrambles.
Some analysts have pointed out that Mahomes' recovery may also involve changes in his throwing mechanics to protect the knee. Biomechanics experts note that after ACL reconstruction, many athletes develop a subtle change in their stride or planting foot, which can affect accuracy and power. However, early reports from camp suggest Mahomes' arm strength remains elite.
Historical Context of Mahomes' Injury and Recovery
Mahomes' ACL tear occurred in December 2025 during a Week 15 game against the Los Angeles Chargers. He suffered a torn ACL and LCL after being tackled awkwardly. The injury happened just as the Chiefs were fighting for a playoff spot. Without Mahomes, the team lost its final two games and finished 9-8, missing the postseason for the first time since 2014.
It was a shocking fall for a franchise that had won two Super Bowls in the previous four years. Mahomes had been the MVP of both championship runs. His absence highlighted just how dependent the Chiefs are on his brilliance.
Surgery was performed by Dr. James Andrews, a renowned orthopedist who has treated countless athletes. The standard recovery timeline for an ACL reconstruction is 9-12 months, putting Mahomes on track for a Week 1 return in September 2026. He has been diligent in his rehabilitation, working with team trainers and private specialists.
Mahomes' wife Brittany has been a constant source of support, posting updates on social media throughout the recovery. She celebrated his return to the practice field with a heartfelt message, noting the hard work he put in.
The Chiefs have also added depth at quarterback, signing veteran backup Matt Ryan in the offseason. While Ryan is a former MVP, he is clearly a safety net. The team is confident that Mahomes will be ready, but they have a contingency plan if setbacks occur.
Reactions From Around the League
Fans and media personalities have weighed in on Mahomes' condition. Pat McAfee, the ESPN personality and former NFL punter, expressed optimism after seeing video of Mahomes throwing. "He looks like Patrick Mahomes to me," McAfee said. "The arm is there, the movement looks clean. I think he'll be fine."
Other analysts are more cautious. Former Chiefs quarterback Chase Daniel noted that Mahomes was "still babying the left knee" in some drills, suggesting that full confidence may take time. "It's not unusual to see a QB favoring a leg early in camp," Daniel said. "But the question is whether that favoritism becomes a habit or goes away once the season starts."
The New York Post reported that a "big Patrick Mahomes change is evident at Chiefs camp," alluding to a potential shift in playing style. The article speculated that Mahomes might scramble less and rely more on his arm and the running game.
SB Nation posed the question: "Can Mahomes play with fewer scrambles?" The answer will define the Chiefs' offensive approach in 2026. Running back Kenneth Walker III's addition suggests the team may emphasize the ground game to take pressure off Mahomes.
Meanwhile, other NFL news continues to swirl around training camps. The Vikings have a quarterback battle between Kirk Cousins and J.J. McCarthy. The MLB trade deadline is approaching, and the U.S. swimming nationals are underway. But the focus remains on Mahomes, as his recovery could shape the entire AFC landscape.
The Chiefs' first full team practice with veterans is scheduled for July 29. Until then, the limited sessions with quarterbacks and rookies will offer glimpses of Mahomes' progress. Head coach Andy Reid has stressed patience, but the excitement among Chiefs fans is palpable.
Mahomes himself remains confident. "I'm feeling good, and I'm ready to go," he said. "It's been a long road, but I'm excited to be back with my teammates."
As training camp continues, all eyes will be on Mahomes' leg, both its appearance and its performance. The skinny leg concerns may fade if he continues to pass well and move without hesitation. But the underlying worry about his long-term durability will persist until he takes his first hit in a real game.
The Chiefs have a tough schedule ahead, including games against the Broncos, Raiders, and defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles. Mahomes will need to be at his best to lead Kansas City back to the playoffs. For now, the cautious approach seems wise.
Source: Yahoo Sports News