This season, the Kansas City Chiefs have the opportunity to achieve an unprecedented three-peat in the NFL, a feat that would position quarterback Patrick Mahomes among the greatest players in history.
In a recent poll, ESPN surveyed over 100 NFL players to evaluate quarterbacks based on various factors, particularly focusing on whether Mahomes, who is pursuing his fourth Super Bowl title, is poised to overtake Tom Brady as the GOAT. While Brady secured seven championships, he did not clinch his fourth until his 15th season; Mahomes is set to enter his eighth year.
“It’s Brady, but if Mahomes achieves a three-peat, that changes everything,” remarked one player from the AFC South.
The survey encouraged players to respond honestly by granting anonymity and included rankings in several categories:
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Top 3 current quarterbacks
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Rookie QB with the most promising career
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Most overrated quarterback
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Most underrated quarterback
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Biggest trash-talking quarterback
A total of 103 players from 25 teams participated, and they were permitted to vote for their own quarterbacks. Below are the findings.
Determining the GOAT: If not Mahomes, what must he do to claim the title?
When it comes to sheer talent, several respondents asserted that Mahomes would take the lead. Even when considering overall greatness, the Chiefs’ standout received significant recognition.
Pursuing the GOAT
The following table compares the playoff statistics of Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes after their initial seven seasons.
| Playoffs | Brady | Mahomes |
|---|---|---|
“No disrespect to Tom, but I’m going with Pat,” said a player from the NFC South. “Pat can do everything Tom can do, plus he’s more mobile.”
Despite some support for Mahomes, the majority leaned toward Brady, highlighting that Mahomes must either match or exceed Brady’s total number of championships.
“Mahomes is on the right path, but he hasn’t arrived just yet,” another NFC South player stated. “You can’t overlook Tom Brady. He possesses seven rings.
“That’s quite a climb.”
One AFC South player who chose Brady added, ”Mahomes is destined to be the best ever. He has innate skills that are simply unteachable.”
The votes for the GOAT among Brady and Mahomes were distributed as follows:
1. Brady: (85)
2. Mahomes: (7)
A variety of other players also garnered votes.
Ranking the top 3 current quarterbacks
The vote for the top spot was not unanimous; however, most players who didn’t name Mahomes as their No. 1 still placed him at No. 2. Mahomes garnered 87 first-place votes along with 12 second-place votes. One participant named three players but did not provide a clear ranking.
They were not ranked.
The top three positions received weighted scores: No. 1 earned 3 points, No. 2 accrued 2 points, and No. 3 gained 1 point.
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, the defending MVP, secured the second-highest score. Cincinnati Bengals QB Joe Burrow claimed the third spot.
Here are the top 3 QBs ranked along with their point totals:
1. Mahomes: (291)
2. Jackson: (124)
3. Burrow: (51)
Other notable mentions: Buffalo Bills’ Josh Allen (39) and New York Jets’ Aaron Rodgers (32)
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Why Jayden Daniels is better positioned to succeed than Caleb Williams
The “Get Up” crew discusses how rookies Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels are entering different environments with the Chicago Bears and Washington Commanders.
Which rookie QB is likely to have the most successful career?
There is only one team that had two wide receivers surpass 1,000 receiving yards last season. This team chose a WR who led the nation in receiving yards with a remarkable total of 1,640 last year.
This wealth of receiving talent is a key reason why Caleb Williams is predicted to validate the Chicago Bears’ decision to select him with the No. 1 pick this April.
“His potential is likely the highest, but it’s crucial to land in the right setting,” remarked an NFC West player.
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For generations, the Bears have not provided a “right setting” for quarterbacks. In fact, they have not successfully drafted and developed a franchise quarterback since Sid Luckman in 1939. Williams’ predecessor, Justin Fields, was selected 11th overall in 2021 before being traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers three years later.
“It’s Caleb [who has the brightest future], if the Bears can identify what they possess,” an AFC West player shared.
The Washington Commanders selected Jayden Daniels with the second pick, and he has shown impressive performance during training camp, earning him the Week 1 starting role.
“Daniels is in a favorable situation,” stated an NFC South player. “There’s a new ownership group, a new coaching staff, and much of the framework will be tailored around him and his abilities.”
Although Daniels will start, the expectations for his success will not be as high as they are for Williams.
“Everyone will favor Caleb, but remember, he carries that immense pressure,” an NFC South player said. “There’s a significant difference when you have such expectations. He has placed that pressure upon himself.”
“If he does not perform at a Patrick Mahomes level, he will be labeled a bust in everyone’s eyes.”
The survey was conducted prior to Minnesota Vikings’ J.J. McCarthy suffering a season-ending knee injury, but the feedback reflects what many believe will be a fruitful career.
The top choices for the rookie QB likely to achieve the most successful career were:
1. Williams (34)
2. Daniels (30)
3. McCarthy (10)
Other notable selections: Atlanta Falcons’ Michael Penix Jr. (8) and Denver Broncos’ Bo Nix (8)
Most overrated quarterback
The leading three in this category have collectively participated in five Pro Bowls, one Super Bowl, and two conference championships.
This illustrates that a successful quarterback can also be seen as overrated.
While voting for Allen, one NFC West player remarked: “Too many turnovers.”
Since the 2008 season began, Allen’s 102 turnovers lead the NFL. Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions ranks second with 96, while Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is third with 91, according to ESPN Stats & Info.
Allen has attended two Pro Bowls.
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Bowls and helped lead the Bills to five playoff appearances, including a trip to the AFC Championship Game, during his six seasons.
Jalen Hurts of Philadelphia has gone even further, guiding the Eagles to the Super Bowl two years ago. However, some still perceive him as not fully meeting expectations.
“How difficult is it to throw jump balls to A.J. Brown or DeVonta Smith?” posed an NFC East player. “And let’s not forget their tight end [Dallas Goedert] who is also exceptional.”
The Miami Dolphins are hoping that it wasn’t a misstep to place Tua Tagovailoa in this category after awarding him the biggest contract in franchise history—four years, $212.4 million.
Here are the leading candidates for the most overrated quarterback:
1. Allen (11)
T2. Hurts (10)
T2. Tagovailoa (10)
Other prominent candidates: Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers (9), Trevor Lawrence of the Jacksonville Jaguars (8), Deshaun Watson of the Cleveland Browns (7), Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals (6), and Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers (6).
Despite unexpected early success, 49ers QB Brock Purdy remains underrated, according to his colleagues. Tony Ding/Icon Sportswire
Most underrated quarterback
The first label attached to Purdy in the NFL was “Mr. Irrelevant,” for being the final pick of the 2022 draft. The subsequent label was “game manager,” implying he lacks the flashiness of his counterparts.
Now, Purdy can claim at least a share of another title: “Most underrated quarterback in the NFL.” He and Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams tied for the highest votes.
Last season, Purdy led the 49ers to a Super Bowl and achieved the highest QBR in just his second year.
Stafford, at 36 years old, threw for 3,965 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, earning his second Pro Bowl selection while aiding the Rams in returning to the playoffs in 2023. He also ranked sixth in QBR with a score of 63.5.
Entering his 16th season, Stafford spent his first 12 years with the Detroit Lions.
“When you’ve performed at such a high level for an extended period, people tend to take it for granted,” remarked an NFC West player regarding Stafford. “Being in Detroit perhaps limited the attention he received.”
“Now that he’s been in L.A. for a few years, one hopes the market will recognize the talent he has.”
Here are the top vote-earners for the most underrated quarterback:
T1. Purdy (14)
T1. Stafford (14)
T3. Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons (7)
T3. Jared Goff of the Lions (7)
T3. Jordan Love of the Green Bay Packers (7)
T3. Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers (7)
Additional notable vote-earners: Herbert (6), Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys (4), Jackson (4), Hurts (4), and Tagovailoa (4).
Biggest trash-talking quarterback
To some of his peers, Allen ranks among the top three quarterbacks in the league. To others, his high turnover rate contributes to the perception of him as overrated. Yet, a plurality of those voting in this category deem him the biggest trash-talking QB in the league.
“He’s going to run you over and talk trash afterward,” commented an NFC East player.
Allen was deemed the biggest trash talker, surpassing Mayfield and Rodgers.
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“[Rodgers] understands your next move before you even make it, so he engages in those mental games,” an NFC West player remarked. “When he steps onto the field, he just locks eyes with you, leaving you uncertain about how to respond. It’s like, ‘Why is he staring at me?’ in that moment.
“It’s more like an intellectual form of trash talk.”
Rodgers doesn’t reserve his taunts for subtle cues alone; Bears fans can certainly testify to that. In 2021, while playing for the Green Bay Packers, Rodgers famously shouted, “I still own you” to the crowd at Soldier Field after scoring a touchdown. He was also well-known for his “discount double check” celebration, where he mimicked putting on an imaginary championship belt around his waist.
Here are the top contenders for the title of biggest trash-talking QB:
1. Allen (26)
2. Mayfield (17)
3. Rodgers (15)
Additional notable vote-getters: Mahomes (11), Burrow (4), and Houston Texans’ C.J. Stroud (4)
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Patrick Mahomes: Chasing Greatness in the Quest for NFL’s First Three-Peat
A New Era of NFL Dominance
Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, has redefined excellence in the NFL. With his unconventional playing style and unmatched talent, Mahomes has quickly become a household name. As he leads the Chiefs into the 2023 season, the buzz surrounding his pursuit of an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl title is palpable. This article delves into Mahomes’ journey, the factors contributing to his success, and the challenges he faces in his quest for greatness.
The Mahomes Effect
Unmatched Talent and Skill
Patrick Mahomes displays a unique combination of arm strength, mobility, and football IQ. His ability to make off-platform throws and read defenses sets him apart from other quarterbacks. Let’s look at some of Mahomes’ impressive stats:
| Season | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 4,740 | 38 | 6 |
| 2021 | 4,839 | 37 | 13 |
| 2022 | 5,250 | 41 | 12 |
Leadership and Team Dynamics
Mahomes is not just a quarterback; he is a leader on and off the field. His ability to inspire teammates plays a crucial role in the Chiefs’ success. Mahomes has fostered strong relationships with key players, including tight end Travis Kelce and wide receiver Tyreek Hill, enhancing team chemistry. This chemistry has translated into seamless on-field execution, making the Chiefs one of the most potent offenses in the league.
Road to Greatness: Key Milestones
Turning Point: The 2019 Season
The 2019 season marked a significant turning point for Mahomes and the Chiefs. After leading the team to their first Super Bowl victory in 50 years, Mahomes was named Super Bowl MVP. His performance not only solidified his place among the greats but also set the stage for his pursuit of a three-peat.
2020 and 2021: Repeating History
In 2020, Mahomes guided the Chiefs back to the Super Bowl, successfully defending their title with a stellar performance. The following year, despite facing challenges such as injuries and a revamped offensive line, he propelled the Chiefs to yet another championship. This resilience showcases Mahomes’ commitment to greatness.
Challenges Ahead
Injuries and Recovery
Injuries can derail even the most promising careers. Mahomes has faced a few injuries throughout his career, including a dislocated kneecap in 2019 and turf toe in 2021. However, his dedication to recovery and training has enabled him to return stronger each time. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he manages his health in the 2023 season as he aims for a third consecutive title.
Intense Competition
The NFL landscape is constantly evolving, with numerous teams vying for supremacy. Key rivals, such as the Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens, have bolstered their rosters, making the path to a three-peat more challenging. Mahomes and the Chiefs will need to maintain their focus and execution amidst fierce competition.
Benefits of Mahomes’ Leadership Style
Fostering a Winning Culture
Mahomes’ leadership extends beyond the field. His work ethic and commitment to excellence inspire the entire organization, fostering a winning culture within the Chiefs. This culture emphasizes hard work, accountability, and teamwork—values essential for sustained success.
Building Future Leaders
As Mahomes continues to excel, he is setting an example for the next generation of quarterbacks. His mentorship of younger players showcases the importance of sharing knowledge and experience, which is critical for the long-term success of the franchise.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Athletes
Embrace Versatility
Mahomes’ ability to adapt his game to different situations is a key aspect of his success. Aspiring athletes should focus on developing versatility, enhancing their skill sets in various areas of the game. Here are some tips:
- Practice multiple throwing techniques.
- Work on footwork and agility drills.
- Study game film to understand defensive strategies.
Prioritize Mental Toughness
Success in sports often hinges on mental resilience. Athletes should train their minds as rigorously as their bodies:
- Engage in visualization techniques.
- Set specific, achievable goals.
- Learn to manage stress and pressure effectively.
Case Studies: Other Athletes Chasing Greatness
Tom Brady: The Ultimate Competitor
Tom Brady, often cited as the greatest quarterback of all time, also faced challenges on his journey to greatness. His relentless work ethic and focus on improvement have been instrumental in his success. Brady’s ability to adapt his game over the years serves as a powerful lesson for Mahomes as he seeks to carve out his legacy.
LeBron James: Consistency Over the Years
LeBron James, a basketball juggernaut, exemplifies consistency and excellence. His career longevity and impact on the game serve as inspiration for athletes in all sports. Mahomes can draw parallels between his journey and that of LeBron, particularly in the areas of leadership and adaptability.
The Future of Mahomes and the NFL
As Patrick Mahomes continues to chase greatness, the NFL is witnessing a transformative era defined by remarkable talent and unparalleled competition. Whether or not he achieves a third consecutive Super Bowl title, Mahomes’ impact on the game will be felt for generations to come. His pursuit of excellence pushes the boundaries of what is possible in professional sports.
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