Patrick Mahomes could return Week 1 after faster ACL Surgery than Micah Parsons

Patrick Mahomes and Micah Parsons saw their seasons end within days of each other in December after both suffered ACL injuries. The timing of the injuries was similar, but the decisions that followed differed.

As the new season begins, that decision has placed Mahomes in a stronger position to attempt a Week 1 return, while Parsons has already understood the challenge ahead.Mahomes gained quick medical assistance. The star-QB underwent surgery in mid-December, shortly after sustaining a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee. Parsons, on the other hand, delayed the process until Dec. 29. In a recovery process that often spans nearly nine months, that two-week gap has become crucial, especially with offseason events and training camp dates already set.

Patrick Mahomes’ early decision aligns with the Chiefs’ optimism

Chiefs HC Andy Reid addressed Mahomes’ progress on Jan. 12, 2026, during a media availability at the team facility in Kansas City. He confirmed that the quarterback remained in the city to continue his rehabilitation under the team’s supervision and said the early signs had been encouraging.“First of all, he’s doing great,” Reid said during the session. “He’s staying here, working through the rehab, and everything is moving in the right direction.”

That message was reinforced a day earlier by Mahomes’ longtime trainer Bobby Stroupe. On Jan 11, Stroupe posted an old training photo on Instagram and referenced the doubts Mahomes faced following his 2020 postseason toe injury. The post served as a reminder of Mahomes’ past recoveries and his ability to return without a drop in performance.Meanwhile, Micah Parsons has taken a more measured stance. Speaking on Jan 13, 2026, during a Cowboys-organized community event in Dallas, the star acknowledged that returning for Week 1 would be difficult.

He described the goal as “lofty” while maintaining that his focus remains on a full and proper recovery rather than rushing the process.For KC, Mahomes’ presence carries added weight. Since 2018, the team's win percentage has dropped sharply in games he does not start, a trend that underscores his importance to the franchise’s stability and offensive identity. That reality explains both the urgency behind his early surgery. The contrast between Mahomes and Parsons is not about commitment or toughness. It is about timing. Mahomes acted quickly, so the result was quick.Also Read: Micah Parsons injury update: Will Packers LB play tonight vs. Bears?