Patrick Mahomes wasted zero time squashing every single doubt about his mobility after a torn ACL, punching in a 15-yard running touchdown in the Kansas City Chiefs’ very first drive of Week 1. This guy was back in the lineup, and he proved he’s absolutely all the way back from last season’s devastating injury.
The Return No One Saw Coming So Fast
Remember all the chatter? Mahomes tore his ACL last December, and everyone was bracing for him to miss a chunk of the 2026 season. But his recovery was smooth, seriously smooth. By mid-summer, there was no question he’d be playing Week 1, but the biggest question mark hung over his mobility. Could he still scramble? Would he protect himself? He answered all that in one drive. After Bo Nix threw an interception to start the Denver Broncos’ night, the Chiefs’ first big drive was mostly Kenneth Walker III doing his thing on the ground. But when it was Mahomes’ turn to use his legs, he didn’t hesitate.
No Sliding Here, Just Straight Score
Mahomes tried to run one in earlier in that same drive, and yeah, it got called back for holding. But even that first scramble was a clear signal: he was moving. Then, on the very next play, he did it again. From further out! He scrambled, went straight up the middle for a 15-yard score, and just like that, the Chiefs were up 7-0. You know there had to be some heart-in-throat moments on the sideline watching him take off. What’s wild? He didn’t slide to play it safe. Nah, he lunged into the end zone. The replays showed a pretty clear hold by Travis Kelce on that play, but no flag, so the score stood. Dude’s not holding anything back.
Mahomes showed everyone there’s zero problem with his mobility. He proved it right away. What’s next? Every defense is now on notice: the guy is fully cleared for takeoff, and he’s not playing it safe.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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