Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes will see his first action of the 2026 season in a 'Monday Night Football' matchup against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium.
Despite suffering a season-ending knee injury less than 10 months ago, Mahomes enters the rivalry tilt with high expectations. The two-time MVP failed to make the playoffs for the first time in his career and is at risk of missing them again if he can't perform at a high level this season.
Luckily for Chiefs fans, the six-time Pro Bowler thrives under pressure. Barring an all-out collapse by Kansas City's offensive line, Mahomes is poised to have a great first game back on Monday.
Why you need to start QB Patrick Mahomes in Week 1 vs Broncos
I'll start this off by disclosing that Mahomes is the starting quarterback for my fantasy
team this season, so some of this may just be wishful thinking. Denver's defense was well above average in passing yards allowed last year, and they led the league in sacks. That doesn't bode well for a quarterback fresh off an ACL injury and without his starting tackle.
However, I would argue no player in the league is more out to prove the naysayers wrong than Mahomes. If backup offensive lineman Kahlil Benson can hold his own against the Broncos (and that's a big if), I think the two-time MVP will start his Comeback Player of the Year campaign with a bang on Monday. I will be starting Mahomes without question.
QB Patrick Mahomes 2025 stats
QB Patrick Mahomes vs Broncos stat predictions in Week 1
On paper, Mahomes should be at a serious disadvantage in Monday's game. Starting offensive lineman Joshua Simmons is out for an undetermined amount of time with a back injury, which leaves Mahomes' blindside in the hands of rookie offensive lineman Khalil Benson. The former Indiana Hoosier went undrafted in 2026 and has now been thrust into the starting lineup to protect a generational quarterback talent.
That being said, I feel good about Mahomes' ability to produce on Monday. With reigning Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III in the backfield, head coach Andy Reid can open up the playbook and give Mahomes plenty of opportunities.
It's certainly a long shot, but I think Mahomes ends Monday's game with at least two touchdowns and 300+ yards.
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This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Fans should start Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes in fantasy football Week 1
