Patrick Mahomes, quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, consulted with several players, including Tom Brady, during his recovery from a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee. Mahomes sustained the injury in a game on December 14 and underwent surgery the following day. He has since been cleared for training camp, approximately seven months after the injury.
Mahomes stated that he spoke with Brady early in his rehabilitation process due to the similarity of their injuries. Brady experienced a torn ACL and MCL in his left knee during the 2008 season opener. Mahomes emphasized the importance of staying diligent throughout the recovery, noting it is a lengthy process.
Rehabilitation and Competition
In addition to Brady, Mahomes also consulted with former Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu and veteran tight end Zach Ertz. Mathieu previously tore the ACL and LCL in his left knee in 2013 and had another ACL tear in 2015. Ertz tore his ACL a week before Mahomes’ injury.
Mahomes and Ertz developed a competitive dynamic during their rehabilitation. Mahomes described how their conversations evolved into a rehab competition, where they would share updates on their progress, such as deadlift amounts and videos of their training. This competitive aspect helped to motivate Mahomes through the solitary nature of rehabilitation.
Despite being cleared for training camp, Mahomes views this as another checkpoint in his recovery. He aims to prove to coaches and doctors that he is the same quarterback he was before the injury, if not better, and capable of performing effectively in games.
Team Outlook and Future Adjustments
The question of how the Chiefs will perform if Mahomes is not at 100% health this season has been raised. Former NFL wide receiver Andrew Hawkins suggested that Mahomes might need to adjust his playing style due to his age and recent injury. Hawkins expressed doubt that the Chiefs could maintain their previous level of success with a less-than-fully healthy Mahomes.
NFL insider Adam Schefter highlighted the Chiefs’ offseason moves to bolster the team around Mahomes, including signing Kenneth Walker III and bringing in Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator. These actions suggest a plan to emphasize the ground game more than in recent seasons.
Former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum countered that an elite run game still relies on a strong pass game to prevent defenses from focusing solely on stopping the run. Former NFL offensive lineman Damien Woody indicated that the Chiefs might be compelled to establish a stronger offensive identity this year due to a potential lack of explosiveness in the passing game. Woody also suggested that the Chiefs might be the third-best team in the AFC West this season, considering changes on the defensive side of the ball.
Mahomes is focused on preparing himself for the regular season, stating he will approach training camp with intensity. He plans to immerse himself fully in the team’s practice regimen to be ready for September.
Mahomes acknowledged that the recovery process is ongoing and will likely be a factor throughout his career, requiring continuous attention. He expressed excitement about returning to the practice field with his teammates after spending time rehabbing.
The decision regarding Mahomes’ participation in preseason games will be made by the coaches and doctors, though he intends to prepare as if he will play. Mahomes will begin working with the rookies this week.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
