Patrick Mahomes, the face of the NFL, is known for his explosive playmaking and exceptional quarterback skills. Before he became a superstar with the Kansas City Chiefs, Mahomes was a promising prospect in college football. Let’s explore where Mahomes played before his rise to NFL stardom and how he got there.
Mahomes’ Journey Begins: A Three-Star Recruit
Coming out of high school, Patrick Mahomes was rated as a three-star recruit. He received offers from several programs, including Oklahoma State and Rice, but ultimately chose to play for Texas Tech. This decision would set the stage for his incredible college career and future in the NFL.
Freshman Year: Splitting Time and Making an Impact
During his freshman season at Texas Tech, Mahomes made a name for himself by splitting time with the Red Raiders baseball team. He played in seven football games, primarily in relief of the then-starter, Davis Webb, who was dealing with injuries. Mahomes showcased his potential in a standout game, throwing for a Big 12 freshman record of 598 yards against Baylor, along with six touchdowns. By the end of the season, he amassed 1,547 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and only four interceptions.
Becoming the Full-Time Starter
In 2015, Mahomes became the full-time starter for Texas Tech during his sophomore year. He led the team to a 7-6 record, proving himself as one of the best quarterbacks in the Big 12. Under head coach Kliff Kingsbury’s “Air Raid” offense, Mahomes delivered impressive statistics, surpassing 350 passing yards in ten games. He finished the season with an astounding 4,653 yards and 36 touchdowns, firmly placing him on the NFL Draft radar.
A Record-Breaking Junior Season
Mahomes’ junior year solidified his status as a top quarterback prospect. He put up remarkable numbers, throwing for an incredible 5,052 yards and 41 touchdowns while reducing his interceptions to just ten. His explosive play and consistency made him one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the nation, alongside Mitch Trubisky from North Carolina and Deshaun Watson from Clemson.
The NFL Draft: A Bold Move by Kansas City
As the NFL Draft approached, Mahomes was regarded as one of the top three quarterback prospects. The Chicago Bears selected Trubisky with the second overall pick, prompting the Kansas City Chiefs to make a strategic move. They traded up from the 27th pick to the 10th pick, just ahead of the New Orleans Saints, to secure Mahomes. This decision would change the trajectory of the franchise.
The Saints Were Also Interested
Interestingly, the New Orleans Saints, drafting from the 11th spot, had their eyes on Mahomes as a potential successor to Drew Brees. Kansas City’s timely trade ensured they nabbed their future star just in time, showcasing their keen insight into Mahomes’ potential.
A Star is Born
Patrick Mahomes’ journey from Texas Tech to NFL stardom is a testament to his talent and determination. The Chiefs’ decision to draft him has proven to be one of the best choices in NFL history. As he continues to shine in the league, Mahomes‘ college days remain a crucial part of his incredible story.
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