This Sunday marks a significant milestone for Patrick Mahomes as he suits up for his 100th NFL game. At just 28 years old, Mahomes has already cemented himself as one of the premier talents in the league, boasting accomplishments that have sparked debates over whether he could eventually become the greatest quarterback of all time.
Mahomes’ journey has been nothing short of spectacular since he became the Kansas City Chiefs’ starting quarterback in 2018. In his first full season as a starter, Mahomes threw for over 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns, earning him the NFL MVP award. His electric play style, marked by incredible arm strength, off-script creativity, and uncanny ability to make highlight-reel throws, immediately set him apart from his peers.
The most compelling argument for Mahomes’ place in the “GOAT” (Greatest of All-Time) conversation is his postseason success. Through his first five seasons, Mahomes has led the Chiefs to three Super Bowl appearances, winning two of them, along with being named Super Bowl MVP twice. In comparison, other greats like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning were not as successful so early in their careers. Mahomes also boasts impressive efficiency, as his career passer rating and touchdown-to-interception ratio rank among the best in NFL history.
However, the question of Mahomes being the greatest quarterback of all time is nuanced. While he has accomplished more in his first 100 games than most quarterbacks do in their entire careers, longevity is a key factor in this debate. Legends like Tom Brady, who played for over two decades and won seven Super Bowls, and Joe Montana, who never lost in a Super Bowl, built their legacies over the long haul. Mahomes’ relatively young career means he still has years ahead to solidify his case.
To crown Mahomes as the greatest of all time now would be premature, but if his trajectory continues at this unprecedented pace, he will undoubtedly be in the conversation by the end of his career. For now, Mahomes has revolutionized the position and is on a path toward greatness, and his 100th game is just another chapter in what could be an all-time legacy.