When it comes to injuries in the NFL, time is usually the biggest obstacle. But when it comes to Patrick Mahomes, the conversation always feels different; it creates debate and draws attention.

During an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show on ESPN, Adam Schefter shared what many around the league are thinking after seeing Mahomes’ recent progress. Even though there are still signs he’s not fully back yet, the expectations remain high.

Will Patrick Mahomes be ready for Week 1?

After looking at his recovery and hearing medical opinions, Schefter summed it up with one key idea: give Mahomes five more months, and he should be ready for the start of the season.

The 2026 NFL regular season is set to begin on Wednesday, September 9, breaking from the usual Thursday tradition, with an opening game in Seattle where the Seahawks will host. The full schedule will be announced in May, with the preseason taking place in August.

With the 2026 NFL Draft just days away scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh teams are already preparing and evaluating their options. The Kansas City Chiefs are expected to focus on adding depth, particularly on the offensive line and at wide receiver, as they continue building around Mahomes for another championship run.

It’s not an official guarantee. But it’s the perspective of someone who has spent years watching how teams handle situations like this. Recovery isn’t just about the body it’s also about a player’s ability to return to game speed. And Mahomes has already shown he can do that. And in the NFL, five months can make all the difference.