The Kansas City Chiefs dodged a serious injury in Week 7. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a dislocated knee cap, but he did not suffer ligament damage. The low end on most estimates has been three weeks to return, but ESPN’s Adam Schefter offered a “if not sooner” in his report on the injury.

Schefter mentioned that along with the dislocated knee cap, Mahomes suffered a high ankle sprain. The latter injury can cost a player a month or more depending on the severity. Three weeks from now would have Mahomes back in time to face the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football in Week 11. It is worth noting the Chiefs have a bye week immediately after that game.

Fantasy football analysis, Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes

This is much better news than most expected Thursday evening. That being said, fantasy owners should expect a cautious approach by the Chiefs. I would be surprised if he played in Week 11. The Chiefs have a one-game lead on the Raiders, pending Oakland’s Week 7 matchup with the Packers. I don’t think standings will impact the Chiefs bringing back Mahomes sooner, but if they have a 1.5 game lead coming out of this weekend, it makes the conservative approach that much easier.