Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes Could Reportedly Return to Action Sooner Than Original Timetable Suggested

Kansas City Chiefs fans figured they got the best news possible when Patrick Mahomes' MRI results on his knee injury revealed no ligament damage. But the latest update delivers more hope.

After it was determined Mahomes was expected to miss at least three weeks, a recent report from ESPN's Adam Schefter suggests the QB could return before that.

Hard as it was to imagine Thursday night, Patrick Mahomes now could return to the Chiefs in less than three weeks, per sources.https://t.co/zH3k56zBQN
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 20, 2019

With that being said, it was also noted the Chiefs expect to exercise extreme caution with their franchise player, considering it's a knee injury and they don't want to jeopardize his long-term health.

On top of that, while Schefter's report brings optimism, another from NFL insider Ian Rapoport suggests Mahomes' return won't come until Week 11 or Week 13.

From @NFLGameDay: #Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes is out 3-5 weeks, either back in Week 11 or after the bye in Week 13. Two key points: He avoided major injury by not moving on the field and surgery wasn't discussed at all during the week. pic.twitter.com/tbW7zAXDvc
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 20, 2019

In the meantime, the Chiefs will roll with Matt Moore under center, though there are some other options on the market if Mahomes is out longer than expected.

All in all, an extended Mahomes' absence wouldn't be season-altering for the Chiefs. He's already definitely missing key matchups against the Packers and Vikings, and after that KC faces the Titans, Chargers and Raiders. It's safe to say a backup QB in Andy Reid's offense can win at least two out of those three latter matchups.

Nonetheless, stay tuned for updates on Mahomes as we learn more.