Patrick Mahomes’ latest rehab update is drawing attention — not just for his progress, but for what he was wearing.

The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback shared a short video of himself throwing during a workout, marking another step forward in his recovery from knee surgery. While the clip showed controlled movement and a light throwing session, fans quickly noticed the compression sleeve on Mahomes’ left leg.

The sleeve, worn on the knee he injured late last season, is commonly used during recovery from orthopedic procedures.

Patrick Mahomes Compression Sleeve Explained During Rehab Process

Mahomes is approximately three months removed from surgery to repair both his ACL and LCL. In the video, he drops back and delivers a pass while wearing a compression sleeve designed to support the joint.

According to OrthoSleeve, compression sleeves are often used after surgery to help reduce swelling, minimize pain, and support healing. The sleeve applies consistent pressure, which can help prevent fluid buildup and improve circulation.

The added circulation can also reduce the risk of blood clots and assist in recovery by supporting surrounding tissue. Compression sleeves are frequently used in orthopedic rehab to provide stability while allowing movement.

The Cleveland Clinic also notes that these sleeves can improve joint awareness and provide additional support as athletes begin to return to activity.

In Mahomes’ case, the sleeve represents a standard part of the recovery process rather than a setback.

Mahomes’ Recovery Timeline Still Unclear for Chiefs

While the video suggests progress, Mahomes’ timeline for returning to the field remains uncertain. The NFL season is expected to begin in early September, but his recovery could take between nine and twelve months.

NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport addressed the situation during an appearance on “The Insiders,” explaining that the update is encouraging but not definitive.

“This is good news,” Rapoport said. “That said, there is still some uncertainty. There’s a lot of uncertainty because he is just three months out from a nine-to-twelve-month recovery.”

Rapoport emphasized that Mahomes’ injury involved more than just the ACL.

“It is not just an ACL tear. It is also an LCL tear,” he said. “The knee can be a little stiff.”

He also noted that Mahomes has been spending extended time at the team facility working on his recovery.

Chiefs Prepare as Patrick Mahomes Continues Rehab

The Chiefs are taking a cautious approach as Mahomes progresses through rehab. The organization is not expected to rush him back before he is fully ready.

“If Patrick Mahomes is not ready in September, he is just not going to be on the field,” Rapoport said. “This is a conservative and very good medical staff. That is why they traded for Justin Fields — who has plenty of starter experience — even if it’s just for the first couple of games of the season.”

The team has prepared for that possibility by adding quarterback depth, ensuring they have options if Mahomes misses time early in the season.

For now, Mahomes’ latest video — and the compression sleeve seen during the workout — signals steady progress. While questions remain about his return date, the Chiefs quarterback appears to be moving forward in his recovery.