Mahomes’ ACL Injury Ends Chiefs’ Playoff Hopes in Loss to Chargers

Imagn Images / VIA REUTERS

The Kansas City Chiefs’ 2025 season came to a devastating close on Sunday as quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a 16–13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium. The injury occurred in the final minutes of the game and symbolized the abrupt end of Kansas City’s playoff hopes for the first time in more than a decade. Mahomes was injured while scrambling toward the sideline late in the fourth quarter when he was spun to the turf by Chargers defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand. The quarterback immediately clutched his left knee and had to be helped off the field. Shortly after the game, the Chiefs confirmed that an MRI revealed a torn ACL, and the team announced it would explore surgical options. Mahomes later addressed fans on social media, expressing disappointment while emphasizing faith and determination during recovery. Before the injury, Mahomes had led Kansas City to an early advantage. The Chiefs scored on their opening drive when Mahomes rushed for a 12-yard touchdown and later added two field goals to take a 13–3 halftime lead. However, the Chargers responded with resilience, led by quarterback Justin Herbert, who played through a broken left hand. Herbert orchestrated a late first-half scoring drive and guided Los Angeles to field goals in the second half that ultimately gave them the lead.

After Mahomes exited the game, backup quarterback Gardner Minshew took over and briefly revived Kansas City’s hopes with several completions. Those hopes ended when Chargers safety Derwin James intercepted Minshew’s final pass intended for tight end Travis Kelce with 20 seconds remaining. The turnover sealed the victory and capped a strong defensive performance for Los Angeles. The loss dropped the Chiefs to 6–8, officially eliminating them from postseason contention. It also marked the first time since 2014 that Kansas City will miss the playoffs. Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh praised his team’s toughness and growth, while Herbert highlighted the significance of winning a close divisional game on the road.

As the Chargers continue their push toward the playoffs, the Chiefs now face an uncertain future. Minshew is expected to start the final three games of the season, while Mahomes begins a long recovery process. For Kansas City, the loss represented not only the end of a season but a rare moment of vulnerability for a franchise accustomed to sustained success.