Is Patrick Mahomes really on track to return for the start of the 2026 NFL season? Not everyone is convinced. During a fiery segment on The Craig Carton Show, the radio host didn't hold back when addressing the buzz surrounding the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback's recovery from a devastating knee injury.

"Patrick Mahomes is not playing football in September for the Kansas City Chiefs," Carton declared. "I know you're a bunch of sheep. I know you're not that bright, but when you tear an ACL, you don't come back in six months. Patrick Mahomes is not going to be running plays for the Chiefs in OTAs, period. Stop, dumbasses."

Carton's strong words come after Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and LCL during a Week 15 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers last season. The injury required surgery the following day, but since then, the two-time Super Bowl MVP has shown impressive progress in his rehab. Many fans and analysts have speculated that he could be back on the field well before the 2026 regular season kicks off.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has offered some cautious optimism. "I know he's doing a lot of stuff right now. That's what I can give you," Reid said during his rookie minicamp press conference. "He is throwing the ball, and he does it on his own, so he's not getting in any trouble here."

While Mahomes' determination and work ethic are legendary—think of his iconic comebacks and no-look passes—recovering from a torn ACL in just six months is a tall order for any athlete. As OTAs continue this offseason, the debate over his availability for September is only heating up. For now, the Chiefs and their fans will have to wait and see if their star signal-caller can beat the odds once again.