How NFL Players REALLY FEEL About Patrick Mahomes
How NFL Players REALLY FEEL About Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes: the name alone sends a ripple of respect—and maybe a tinge of envy—through the NFL. At just 28, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback has amassed two MVP titles, two Super Bowl rings, and a highlight reel that could rival Hollywood blockbusters. But what do Mahomes’ peers in the NFL really think of him? Is he just another rival, or has he carved a unique space in their hearts and minds? We did some digging, and the results are both fascinating and telling.
Respect That Borders on Awe
“The guy’s just a magician. You think you’ve got him, and then he’s throwing a no-look pass or escaping a sack like Houdini. You can’t help but tip your cap.”
Defensive players, too, seem to grudgingly admire the man who’s made them look like extras in a training montage. Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt once admitted:
“You hate going up against him because you know he’s going to do something you’ve never seen before. But you also love it because he forces you to bring your A-game.”
Envy? Maybe Just a Little
Let’s be real: Mahomes’ talent and paycheck—did someone say half a billion dollars?—are enough to stir envy in even the most zen-like athlete. But the envy often comes with an undercurrent of admiration. One unnamed NFC quarterback quipped:
“The dude’s living in a cheat code. I mean, who throws a 40-yard sidearm like it’s a warm-up toss? But hey, if I had that arm, I’d probably do the same.”
The Leadership Factor
Mahomes isn’t just a freakish athlete; he’s a leader. Multiple teammates and opponents have pointed out his ability to rally his team, even in the bleakest moments. After the Chiefs’ dramatic comeback win in the 2022 AFC Championship, Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates III said:
“It’s not just his talent. It’s how he makes everyone believe they can do the impossible. That’s rare.”
A Few Good-Natured Gripes
Of course, no one’s perfect—even Mahomes. Some players poke fun at his voice (yes, it’s been likened to Kermit the Frog), while others roll their eyes at the countless State Farm commercials. As one veteran defensive back joked:
“He’s great and all, but does he really need to be in every ad break? Share the love, Pat!”
The Final Verdict
So, how do NFL players really feel about Patrick Mahomes? It’s a mix of awe, envy, and grudging respect. They might joke about his voice or his ubiquity in commercials, but when the whistle blows, every player knows they’re up against a generational talent.
As one AFC defensive lineman summed it up:
“Love him or hate him, you can’t ignore him. He’s the standard now, and we’re all just trying to keep up.”
One thing’s for sure: Mahomes isn’t just playing the game—he’s redefining it.
