Drew Brees’ argument has merit—it is still too early to declare Mahomes the GOAT. However, if he continues on this trajectory, he has a real chance to challenge Brady’s status
The next decade will determine whether Mahomes is merely one of the greats or the undisputed greatest of all time.
Patrick Mahomes has already solidified his place in NFL history, but his journey is far from over. With his skill set, leadership, and competitive drive, he will continue to redefine greatness.
Whether he’s leading the Chiefs to more championships or inspiring the next generation of athletes, Mahomes’ legacy is only growing. The best is yet to come for this once-in-a-generation talent.
Also Read:Â NFL Star C.J. Stroud’s Parents: Who Is He? Bio, Wiki, Age, Career, Family and More
Table of Contents
Patrick Mahomes GOAT Debate: Is It Too Early?
Patrick Mahomes has already built an impressive resume, winning multiple Super Bowls, earning MVP awards, and setting records that have never been seen before in the NFL.1
However, some former players and analysts, including former quarterback Drew Brees, believe it is still too early to crown him as the greatest of all time (GOAT).
This article examines Mahomes’ career, his achievements, and whether he has already cemented his place among the legends of the game.
In his first full season as the Chiefs’ starting quarterback, Mahomes put the league on notice. He threw for 5,097 yards and an astonishing 50 touchdowns, making him just the second player in NFL history to achieve such a feat in a single season.
His performance earned him the NFL MVP award and a Pro Bowl selection, cementing his status as one of the league’s brightest young stars.
THE PADRES TURN A TRIPLE PLAY TO CLINCH A #POSTSEASON BERTH 🤯🤯🤯 https://t.co/I6bwfBGwoa via @YouTube Holy Cow!!!!
— Drew Brees (@drewbrees) September 25, 2024
Mahomes’ Historic Start
Few players have had a better start to their careers than Patrick Mahomes. Since becoming the starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2018, he has been dominant.
His accolades include:
- Three Super Bowl appearances (winning two)
- Two Super Bowl MVPs
- Two NFL MVP awards
- Multiple passing records
- Consistently elite performances in the playoffs
Mahomes has done all of this within his first six seasons as a starter, making his early career one of the most remarkable in NFL history.
The Kansas City Chiefs saw Mahomes’ potential and selected him with the 10th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.
While many teams doubted his unorthodox playing style, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid believed he could mold Mahomes into an elite quarterback.
Mahomes spent his rookie season as a backup to veteran Alex Smith, learning the intricacies of the pro game before taking over as the starter in 2018.
Drew Brees’ Perspective: The Importance of Longevity
While Mahomes’ accomplishments are extraordinary, Drew Brees argues that longevity is a crucial factor in the GOAT debate.2
According to Brees:
“It’s early from the perspective that, even though he’s done stuff that’s unprecedented, there’s a longevity component that goes with that, right? Like, what Tom Brady did was unprecedented. He played 23 seasons, had 10 Super Bowl appearances, and won seven.”
Brees highlights that while Mahomes’ talent is undeniable, sustaining a high level of play for over a decade, like Brady, Peyton Manning, or Joe Montana, is what ultimately defines greatness.
Tom Brady’s Standard: The Ultimate Benchmark
The biggest hurdle in Mahomes’ GOAT case is Tom Brady’s legendary career. Brady holds multiple records, including:
- Most Super Bowl wins (7)
- Most Super Bowl appearances (10)
- Most career passing yards and touchdowns
- Unparalleled playoff success
Brady’s longevity and ability to win at an elite level into his mid-40s set a standard that will be difficult for any quarterback to surpass.
Mahomes vs. Other All-Time Greats
Mahomes is often compared to other legendary quarterbacks, such as:
Joe Montana
- Four Super Bowl wins
- Undefeated in Super Bowls (4-0)
- Known for clutch performances
Peyton Manning
- Five-time NFL MVP (most in history)
- Two Super Bowl wins
- Revolutionized the quarterback position with his football IQ
Drew Brees
- Most passing yards at retirement
- One Super Bowl win
- Incredible accuracy and longevity
Mahomes has already surpassed many of these quarterbacks in some statistical areas, but his career is still young compared to theirs.
Drew Brees: The Longevity Question
Can Mahomes Keep This Up?
Sustaining greatness in the NFL is difficult. Injuries, coaching changes, and roster turnover can impact a player’s career.3
Mahomes has been fortunate to play under Andy Reid and with elite weapons like Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill (before his departure). The question remains: can Mahomes continue this level of dominance for another 10-15 years?
One factor that could help Mahomes build his GOAT case is the way the NFL has evolved.
The league has become more pass-friendly, with rules that protect quarterbacks more than ever. This could allow Mahomes to play at a high level longer than quarterbacks of past generations.
Patrick Mahomes’ journey to NFL superstardom began in Tyler, Texas, where he was born in 1995. As the son of former Major League Baseball pitcher Pat Mahomes, he was immersed in sports from an early age.
Despite excelling in multiple sports, Mahomes ultimately chose football and played college ball at Texas Tech University.
His incredible arm strength and playmaking ability caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in 2017, he declared for the NFL Draft.
The Clutch Factor: Mahomes’ Playoff Dominance
One area where Mahomes already rivals the greatest quarterbacks is in clutch performances.
His ability to deliver in key moments has been on display multiple times, including:
- Super Bowl LIV: Overcame a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter against the 49ers.
- AFC Championship (2021): Led a game-tying drive in just 13 seconds against the Buffalo Bills.
- Super Bowl LVII: Played through an injury and led a second-half comeback against the Eagles.
Clutch moments like these are a major reason why many believe Mahomes is already among the all-time greats.
The Road Ahead: What Mahomes Needs to Do to Become the GOAT
If Mahomes wants to surpass Brady and others in the GOAT conversation, he will need to:
- Sustain success for at least another decade – Longevity is key in the GOAT discussion.
- Win more Super Bowls – While two is impressive, surpassing Montana (4) and Brady (7) would strengthen his case.
- Continue breaking records – Stats will play a big role in Mahomes’ legacy.
- Overcome adversity – How he performs in different situations, such as playing without Andy Reid, will be crucial.
Also Read:Â Patrick Mahomes Bio, Age, Career, Family, Net Worth And More
Drew Brees:Â Record-Breaking Contract
Following his Super Bowl triumph, the Chiefs rewarded Mahomes with a groundbreaking 12-year contract worth up to $503 million in 2020.
At the time, it was the richest contract in sports history, highlighting the Chiefs’ belief in their star quarterback. The deal ensured that Mahomes would be the cornerstone of the franchise for the foreseeable future.
The Kansas City Chiefs had not won a Super Bowl in 50 years, but Mahomes changed that in Super Bowl LIV.
After an electrifying season in 2019, Mahomes led the Chiefs to the Super Bowl, where they faced the San Francisco 49ers.
Down by 10 points in the fourth quarter, Mahomes engineered a remarkable comeback, throwing two touchdown passes in the final minutes. The Chiefs won 31-20, and Mahomes was named Super Bowl MVP for his heroics.
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Continued Success and More Championships
Mahomes continued his dominance, leading the Chiefs to another Super Bowl appearance in 2021, though they fell short against Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
However, he rebounded by guiding the team to back-to-back Super Bowl wins in 2023 and 2024. His victory in Super Bowl LVII against the Philadelphia Eagles solidified his legacy, and he followed it up with another triumph in Super Bowl LVIII, once again defeating the 49ers.
Mahomes’ consistent excellence earned him his second NFL MVP award in 2022. His ability to make seemingly impossible throws, extend plays with his legs, and perform under pressure set him apart from other quarterbacks.
He has revolutionized the position with his creativity and improvisational skills, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Drew Brees: Leader on and Off the Field
Beyond his on-field achievements, Mahomes has established himself as a leader in the Kansas City community.
He launched the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation, which focuses on improving the lives of children through health and wellness initiatives. His philanthropic efforts have made him a beloved figure both in and outside of football.
One of Mahomes’ defining traits is his ability to deliver in the postseason. He has led the Chiefs to seven consecutive AFC Championship appearances, showcasing his dominance in the conference.
His playoff performances, marked by game-winning drives and stunning comebacks, have made him one of the most clutch quarterbacks in NFL history.
Influence on the Next Generation of Quarterbacks
Mahomes’ playing style has influenced a new wave of quarterbacks. His ability to throw from different arm angles, make off-platform throws, and read defenses at an elite level has set a new standard.
Young quarterbacks entering the league now model their game after Mahomes, proving his lasting impact on the sport.
At just 29 years old, Mahomes has already accomplished more than most quarterbacks ever will.
With three Super Bowl rings, two MVP awards, and multiple record-breaking seasons, he is on pace to become one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
If he continues at this rate, he could challenge Tom Brady’s record of seven Super Bowl titles.
Also Read:Â Patrick Mahomes’ Mother Randi Responds to Braun Strowman’s Confrontation with Chiefs QB on RAW
