Patrick Mahomes Undergoes Knee Surgery, Chiefs' Future Uncertain

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes underwent knee surgery on December 14, 2025, following a significant injury during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers. According to Deadspin, Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and a lateral collateral ligament tear after being hit on his left leg while trying to evade pressure.

The Chiefs confirmed that Mahomes had the surgery performed by Dr. Dan Cooper in Dallas and will begin his rehabilitation immediately. Head coach Andy Reid expressed confidence in backup quarterback Gardner Minshew, who stepped in after Mahomes' injury but was unable to lead the team to a win against the Chargers, resulting in the team's elimination from playoff contention.

With Mahomes' recovery expected to take considerable time, the Chiefs face uncertainty about their future performance, especially as they navigate critical games against the Tennessee Titans, Denver Broncos, and Las Vegas Raiders with Minshew at the helm.

ESPN noted that Mahomes was a leading fantasy points producer among quarterbacks this season, which adds to the significance of his absence for both the team and fantasy football managers. The shift in the Chiefs' quarterback situation raises concerns about their ability to compete effectively as they head into the final stretch of the season without their star player.