When it comes to the Kansas City Chiefs' Week 1 quarterback situation, the sportsbooks are speaking loud and clear: Patrick Mahomes is the man they're betting on. Following a devastating torn ACL and LCL in his left knee last December, all signs point to the two-time MVP being ready for the opener—and FanDuel's odds reflect that confidence.
Mahomes suffered the injury on December 14, underwent surgery the very next day (a critical move that eliminated weeks of waiting for swelling to subside), and has been ahead of schedule in his rehab ever since. While the Chiefs' quarterback room also includes Justin Fields, rookie Garrett Nussmeier, and Chris Oladokun, there's little doubt who Kansas City will turn to when the season kicks off.
The NFL schedule release is just around the corner, and all eyes are on the annual Kickoff Game. This year, it's set for Wednesday, September 9—a day earlier than usual—due to the league's first regular-season game in Australia on September 10 between the 49ers and Rams. The league would love nothing more than to feature Chiefs vs. Seahawks in that primetime slot, a ratings bonanza showcasing Mahomes' return. However, Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt has already poured cold water on that idea, stating at the NFL owners' meeting in March that "I don't think that's on the table anymore" due to uncertainty over Mahomes' status.
And honestly, does anyone want to see a backup quarterback in the first NFL game of 2026? The Chiefs without Mahomes are a different team entirely—they cratered to 11 losses in 2025, and even Mahomes wasn't at his usual elite level in 14 games, leading just one game-winning drive compared to seven in 2024. Without their star, Kansas City isn't the same powerhouse.
For fans and bettors alike, the message is clear: Mahomes is the favorite to start Week 1, and the sportsbooks are betting big on his recovery. Whether he'll be under center for the Kickoff Game or a later matchup, all signs point to the Chiefs' franchise quarterback leading the charge when the season begins.