1 Chiefs player key to 2026 hope

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The Kansas City Chiefs had a surprising down season in 2025, but not many are expecting that to happen again in 2026.

Andy Reid and Brett Veach have helped retool the defense, while the offense remains largely intact for yet another season.

But let's face it, the be-all and end-all is centered around Patrick Mahomes and how he recovers from his ACL injury. If he recovers well and plays to the level we know he can, Kansas City is in business this season.

And for Sports Illustrated's Eva Geitheim, the Chiefs' reason for hope in 2026 is down solely to No. 15.

"Patrick Mahomes will be back," Geitheim wrote. "It remains unclear whether Mahomes will be ready for Week 1, but the superstar quarterback is certainly motivated to return after the Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time in his nine years and after he missed the end of the season due to a torn ACL.

"The Chiefs have retooled their defense this offseason, but having one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time back gives them a chance in any game."

MORE: Analyst offers intriguing reason for Bills hope in 2026

Mahomes on track for Week 1?​

Everything we have heard points to Patrick starting against the Denver Broncos. Plus, there have even been reports that he is ahead of schedule in his recovery.

Now, all of that is great, but the Chiefs will be cautious with Patrick.

With Week 1 the goal, I'd imagine he'll need at least a good month or so of practices at training camp to be in good enough shape to take on that Broncos defense, because if you are anything less than 100 percent, it's a nightmare to play against.

Mahomes has made good progress, and if he is healthy, like every season he's played, he'll be key to Kansas City's Super Bowl hopes.

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