The huge money contract that the Kansas City Chiefs QB signed before the 2020 season caused a lot of controversy in the NFL world, with many fans feeling the Superbowl LIV MVP does not deserve the deal. Yet, his performances have continued to amaze fans and silence critics.Let us know more about is Patrick Mahomes Overrated.!
The discussion surrounding Mahomes and his worth to Kansas City may continue to elicit major reactions in the NFL community, yet he continues to show that he is one of the most exciting prospects to come up in the sport. Perceptions that he is overrated are surprising, considering the top-notch performances he has had since he entered the league as the 10th-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.
The Future of the NFL
Ever since his first game against the Broncos, Patrick Mahomes has shown that he is a special gem that is ushering in a new class of QBs with an immense diversity of playing styles. Mahomes had 284 passing yards, the second-most by a rookie in a single game. That would be his only game that season, yet it forbodes what was yet to come in the future. As he has starred for the Chiefs, Mahomes has broken NFL records on his way to a Superbowl ring, breaking Dan Marino’s record for most touchdowns in his first 50 games. Beyond that, his performances compared to those of QB legends such as Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, and Drew Brees show that he is indeed a diamond in the rough. In his first three seasons, Mahomes has scored more touchdowns, passed more yards, had fewer interceptions, and has a better completion percentage than any of the experienced QBs in their first three seasons, showing that his potential is still to be reached. Patrick Mahomes is one to watch, and his achievements show why the Chiefs went all out with a $500 million contract to keep him for the next ten years.
Star Players Around Him
Football teams are like movies in some way, with the main character always needing a supporting cast that makes the movie great. The Chiefs have made sure that Mahomes remains one of the best QBs by having a supporting cast that shows his talent. Tyreek Hill was one of the best receivers in the league on their way to the Superbowl win, with tight end Travis Kelce and running backs Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Darrel Williams providing a great crop of players in the attack of the Chiefs. Every star QB has needed a great team around them to unleash their full skill set, and thinking that Patrick Mahomes is overrated because of his supporting cast does not do justice to the fact that he in turn makes plays that make his teammates play better on the field. Mahomes can make any team great and should be appreciated more by the NFL community.
The Contract
In September 2020, Mahomes signed a 10-year contract extension that was valued at $503 million, with $141 million guaranteed. The contract has been considered excessive by many critics, with most people questioning if Mahomes will be consistent for a decade. What most people do not know is the structure of the contract and how it protects the Chiefs from making losses. For instance, Mahomes can earn $2.5 million every year if he gets the Chiefs to the Superbowl and is named NFL MVP. As such, it will be difficult for Mahomes to get the full value of the contract considering how difficult it is to get to the Superbowl, let alone win the NFL MVP every year. When comparing other QB contracts in the NFL, Mahomes is taking a normal salary home for the performances he is pulling out of the bag each season, showing how valuable he is to the Chiefs.
Why the Hate?
So, what is it about Patrick Mahomes that makes critics believe he is overrated? In sports, the greatest players always get stick for being given huge contracts. Before his move to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tom Brady was considered a washed-up player who was on his last legs. Many felt he should retire, with critics questioning why the Bucs decided to sign him. He would prove all of them wrong, taking the Bucs to the Superbowl and winning the Lombardi trophy. Mahomes will continue to have his ability questioned throughout his career, especially if he gets serious injuries that may hinder his development. But one thing is for certain; you cannot count him out as long as he is on the field. Losing Tyreek Hill this season will bring the critics out, with the receiver moving to the Miami Dolphins this offseason. However, Mahomes will continue impressing with the Chiefs, with the QB continuing his pursuit for success in a career that will earn him a place in the NFL Hall of Fame.
