Chiefs news: GM declares Mahomes ‘way ahead of schedule,’ but there’s 1 big ‘challenge’

The Kansas City Chiefs are entering a crucial offseason following a disappointing 2025 season, which saw them miss the playoffs entirely. A key factor in their potential rebound is the recovery of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who suffered a torn ACL late last year. In an effort to strengthen their roster, the team announced the signing of free agents Xavier Loyd, Marlen Sewell, and Kahlil Benson, while waiving defensive players Ethan Hurkett and Zacch Pickens.

Notably, the Chiefs also waived quarterback Jake Haener. Although this decision reduces their immediate depth, the team remains optimistic about their quarterback situation after selecting Garrett Nussmeier from LSU in the seventh round of the recent draft.

According to ProFootballTalk reports, head coach Andy Reid expects Mahomes to participate in organized team activities to some extent, which is an impressive prospect considering his injury in December.

General Manager Brett Veach shared this optimism during an interview with SiriusXM NFL Radio, stating that Mahomes is “way ahead of schedule.”

Veach praised Mahomes’ work ethic, describing it as “inspiring,” noting that the quarterback has been at the team facility almost every day and has even taken trainers on family trips to assist with his rehabilitation.

However, Veach acknowledged that the biggest challenge will be “protecting him against himself,” as Mahomes is keen to be a full participant by the start of training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri.

The outlook for Mahomes remains positive as the team prepares for its summer program.

Reid confirmed in a conversation with ESPN’s Nate Taylor that Mahomes is on track for the voluntary OTAs scheduled for May 26-28.

While Mahomes continues to recover from surgery on his ACL and LCL, following a Week 15 injury against the Chargers, he is currently in a “good position” to participate in Phase 2 activities.

Phase 3 will introduce more complex drills, but the Chiefs believe Mahomes is doing everything possible to be back on the field as a full participant by late July.

The Kansas City Chiefs are entering a crucial offseason following a disappointing 2025 season, which saw them miss the playoffs entirely. A key factor in their potential rebound is the recovery of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who suffered a torn ACL late last year.