Patrick Mahomes' LCL Injury Adds Complication to QB's Road to Recovery
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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been dealing with a severe knee injury, initially diagnosed as a torn ACL. However, further evaluation revealed that he also tore his LCL. The injury occurred on December 14 during the Chiefs' loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, which eliminated them from playoff contention. Mahomes underwent surgery for the ACL tear, with Dr. Daniel Cooper repairing the damage. NFL insider Ian Rapoport shared the updated injury details, warning that the LCL injury could complicate Mahomes' recovery. So, what is an LCL injury and how long does it take to heal? The LCL (lateral collateral ligament) is a vital knee structure that athletes are more prone to tear. Recovery time for an LCL injury typically ranges from three to 12 weeks, putting Mahomes' recovery between January 2026 and March 2026. However, the ACL tear is expected to take longer to heal, with a recovery period of around nine months. This timeline still allows Mahomes to return for the 2026 season, which begins on September 10. Despite the added complication, Mahomes and his team remain optimistic about his recovery. The quarterback has expressed his gratitude to the Chiefs' fans and his resolve to come back stronger. Chiefs coach Andy Reid also expressed confidence in Mahomes' ability to make a full recovery, citing the success of other quarterbacks who have overcome similar injuries. As Mahomes begins his rehabilitation process, fans can take heart from his inspiring message and the team's support. With a strong support system and a determined mindset, Mahomes is likely to make a successful return to the field.
