Introduction
Patrick Mahomes is a name that resonates with football fans across the world. As the starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, he has redefined the quarterback position with his unique playing style and extraordinary athletic abilities. Fans and analysts often ponder one question: how many years has Mahomes been in the NFL?
Mahomes’ NFL Journey
Patrick Mahomes was drafted 10th overall by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2017 NFL Draft. His journey in the NFL officially began in that same year, marking the beginning of what many believe will be a historic career.
Years in the NFL
As of October 2023, Mahomes has been in the NFL for six seasons. He made his NFL debut on September 17, 2017, as a backup against the Philadelphia Eagles, finishing the game with 0 completions and 0 passing yards. His real breakout season came in 2018, where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with.
Milestone Accomplishments
Since entering the league, Mahomes has accumulated numerous accolades and broken several records. Here are some of the highlights:
- 2018 MVP Award: Mahomes won the league MVP award in his first full season as a starter, throwing for over 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns.
- Super Bowl LIV Champion: In 2020, he led the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl title in 50 years, earning the Super Bowl MVP award.
- Two-time Pro Bowler: Mahomes has been selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times, establishing his place among the elite quarterbacks in the league.
Statistical Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at some of Patrick Mahomes’ career statistics as of 2023, showcasing why he is considered one of the best quarterbacks in the league:
- Passing Yards: Over 24,000 passing yards
- Touchdowns: 200+ touchdown passes
- Quarterback Rating: Consistently rated above 100
- Completion Percentage: Approximately 66% completion rate
Case Studies: Mahomes vs. Other Great Quarterbacks
When assessing Mahomes’ impact on the NFL, it’s essential to compare him with other great quarterbacks in a similar timeframe. Let’s consider two other notable quarterbacks: Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady.
- Aaron Rodgers: In his first six years in the NFL, Rodgers experienced a gradual rise before achieving fame. Mahomes, however, burst onto the scene immediately.
- Tom Brady: Brady’s early years were marked by a slow development phase, leading to mere glimpses of greatness. In contrast, Mahomes’ impact was felt right from the start.
These comparisons reflect how Mahomes has changed the standard for rookie quarterbacks in the modern era.
The Future of Patrick Mahomes
As Mahomes approaches the seven-year mark in the NFL, the future looks incredibly bright. He has already solidified his legacy but continues to strive for more.
- Sustained Excellence: Maintaining high performance through injuries and defenses that increasingly game plan against him.
- Records to Break: Following figures such as Drew Brees and Peyton Manning for all-time records.
- Legacy Building: Further attempts at securing Super Bowl championships to enhance his legacy.
Conclusion
Patrick Mahomes has been in the NFL for six remarkable years, during which he has transformed not just the Kansas City Chiefs but the very nature of being a quarterback in the league. As fans continue to watch his development closely, one thing is certain: the name Patrick Mahomes will be etched in NFL history for generations to come.
