Patrick Mahomes is expected to start the Kansas City Chiefs' season opener Monday against the Denver Broncos, according to coach Andy Reid. Mahomes has made it his mission to be in uniform for Week 1 since undergoing surgery in December to repair the torn ACL and LCL in his left knee. Although held out of preseason, he has not missed any practices since training camp began, when he was cleared in late July to participate in all football activities.

Reid stated, "There's a pretty good chance Patrick will go ahead and start, unless something were to come up here in the next couple days." Mahomes, wearing a brace on his leg, appears healthy and ready to play.

The Chiefs' remaining question involves who will play left tackle. Josh Simmons, their 2025 first-round pick, is unlikely to play due to a lower back injury sustained in camp. Coach Reid suggested undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson could make his NFL debut at left tackle, despite struggling in preseason pass protection. If Benson starts, veteran Jaylon Moore would move to right tackle.

The team will "play the five best guys," Reid said, expressing confidence in Benson's ability to handle the left side.