Patrick Mahomes faces more pressure because of Chiefs fans, history
Becoming a franchise quarterback in the NFL is hard enough, but what makes it more difficult in Kansas City?
On paper, Patrick Mahomes has all the tools for success. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback has weapons all over the field in Tyreek Hill, Sammy Watkins, Travis Kelce and Kareem Hunt. Those weapons paired with a solid offensive line ease the pressure on Mahomes’s first season at the helm.
Even with such riches all around him, however, Mahomes faces a difficult transition to starter—and much of it has nothing to do with his talent or the talent around him. It has everything to do with playing in Kansas City.
The history of Chiefs quarterbacks is depressing to say the least. The Chiefs had arguably the greatest quarterback of all time in Joe Montana, but that was only for two seasons. Other than Joe Cool, the Chiefs have had average quarterbacks as well with Trent Green and Alex Smith. In recent history, the Chiefs have also started a series of eyesores at quarterback: Brodie Croyle, Tyler Thigpen, Brady Quinn… I have to stop there before I begin to cry.
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The fans will put a lot of pressure on young Mahomes. Every team longs for the quarterback that will lead them to the promised land. With even a glimmer of hype and hope, the fans are ready to crown their new quarterback the messiah. The Chiefs have not played in a Super Bowl since the lone victory all the way back in 1970, so I fully expect Chiefs Kingdom will be ready to crown Mahomes as the savior soon enough. This could mean growing pains for Mahomes, which could ruin his confidence. It’s a cyle that could possibly push the team back into the quarterback abyss.
Recent success will make it even more difficult on Mahomes. In Andy Reid’s tenure, the Chiefs have made the playoffs three out of the four seasons. If Mahomes and company were to not make the playoffs for the first season or two, the fans would grow frustrated. There would be questions as to why we moved on from a winning quarterback so hastily. More questions would arise as to whether or not Mahomes has what it takes to be the franchise quarterback. “Did the Chiefs make a mistake drafting him?” Which again could ruin Mahomes confidence—a very hard thing to regain in the NFL.
I believe Mahomes has everything it takes to be the guy in Kansas City for many years to come. He has every intangible you could ask for, along with all the physical and mental capabilities. Early struggles are possible, but Chiefs Kingdom will need to relax and grow with Mahomes as he eases in the NFL. Doing so will help relieve any unneeded pressure on Mahomes, keeping him out of the same breath as previous failed draft picks.
Be patient Chiefs Kingdom, the messiah could be among you.