Patrick Mahomes Wasn’t Confident When He Entered the NFL — The Truth Will Change How You See Him!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Today, Patrick Mahomes is seen as the golden standard of NFL quarterbacks — confident, fearless, unstoppable. But when he first entered the NFL, the reality was far different.
In 2017, coming out of Texas Tech, Mahomes knew he had raw talent — but he also knew he was incredibly raw. NFL scouts questioned his mechanics, his decision-making, even his ability to handle a pro offense. And deep down, Mahomes wasn’t sure he was ready either.
By his own admission, he walked into the Kansas City Chiefs’ locker room overwhelmed and intimidated. Facing veterans, complex playbooks, and sky-high expectations, Mahomes wondered if he truly belonged. There are stories of him staying long after practice, rewatching film obsessively, second-guessing his every throw.
But here’s the remarkable part: instead of letting self-doubt destroy him, Mahomes used it as fuel. He leaned on mentors like Alex Smith, studied relentlessly, and slowly built the quiet confidence that would later define his career.
When Mahomes finally took over as a starter in 2018, he wasn’t just a flashy talent.
He was a refined leader — someone who had battled his own fears behind the scenes and come out stronger.
The Mahomes you see today — cool, calm, dominant — wasn’t born that way.
He built himself that way.
And that’s what makes his story even more inspiring.