Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee during the closing moments of a 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, dealing a major blow to the franchise and ending its postseason hopes.
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The injury occurred as Mahomes attempted to extend a late drive, underscoring his determination to keep Kansas City’s playoff chances alive. The two-time NFL MVP is now considering surgical options, according to reports, and is expected to miss the entirety of the 2025 season, with a return anticipated sometime in 2026.
Patrick Mahomes just tore his acl man it truly is over pic.twitter.com/CmjlApIvaY
— Brian Burns Szn🕸️ (@BurnsSpidaa) December 14, 2025
This marks the most serious injury of Mahomes’ illustrious nine-year career. Since becoming the Chiefs’ starting quarterback, he has led the team to three Super Bowl championships and guided Kansas City to the AFC Championship Game in each of his first seven seasons under center.
The Chiefs’ failure to reach the playoffs this season is a rare setback during the Mahomes era, highlighting the magnitude of both the injury and the team’s struggles. Kansas City had remained a consistent postseason contender since Mahomes took over as starter, making this year’s outcome particularly striking.
Patrick Mahomes 100% just tore his acl.
Non contact and he threw it out of bounds right when it happened. WOW!!!
The chiefs dynasty is OFFICIALLY over pic.twitter.com/2nMYYsF3Yr
— Duš ★ (@AkrnChld) December 14, 2025
Before the official diagnosis was announced, Mahomes shared an emotional message on social media, expressing both pain and resolve. “Don’t know why this had to happen,” he wrote. “And not going to lie it hurts. But all we can do now is trust in God and attack every single day over and over again.”
He also thanked fans for their support, adding, “Thank you Chiefs Kingdom for always supporting me and for everyone who has reached out and sent prayers. I will be back stronger than ever.”
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The injury raises significant questions for the Chiefs as they look ahead to the next season, including how the team will address the quarterback position in Mahomes’ absence. For now, the focus remains on his recovery, as one of the NFL’s most dominant players faces the toughest challenge of his career.