by Beyond the Arm: Exploring the Many Sides of Patrick Mahomes
When we think of Patrick Mahomes, the first things that come to mind are likely his rocket arm, pinpoint accuracy, and highlight-reel plays that leave fans in awe. As the superstar quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, Mahomes has cemented himself as one of the most electrifying talents in the NFL. However, there is far more to Mahomes than just his incredible on-field abilities. Underneath the fame and stardom, Mahomes has proven to be a multidimensional individual with diverse interests and a commitment to using his platform for good. Let’s take a deeper look at some lesser-known facets of Mahomes’ persona.
The Baseball Roots
While football is now his primary focus, Mahomes actually began his athletic career in baseball. Growing up in Whitehouse, Texas, Mahomes excelled on the diamond and was a star pitcher throughout high school. In fact, baseball may have played an important role in shaping the skills we now see from Mahomes in the NFL. His ability to throw with pinpoint accuracy from different arm angles and his rocket arm strength could be traced back to his days on the mound.
Mahomes was such a standout baseball player that he was even drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 37th round of the 2014 MLB Draft out of high school. He had the option to pursue professional baseball but ultimately chose to attend Texas Tech University to play football instead. His baseball background shows that Mahomes’ athletic gifts extend beyond just the gridiron and help explain his rare throwing abilities in the NFL.
A Family Man
Beyond athletics, family is clearly very important to Mahomes. He comes from a sports lineage, as his father Pat Mahomes Sr. had a career as a professional baseball pitcher that spanned over six seasons in the majors. Growing up in a household surrounded by the world of pro sports helped spark Mahomes’ competitive fire from a young age.
Mahomes is also biracial, with an African American father and white mother, and has spoken about using his platform to promote diversity and representation in sports. He seems to have a close relationship with his parents and frequently credits them for their support and guidance. In 2022, Mahomes married his longtime girlfriend Brittany Matthews and the two recently welcomed their second child together. By all accounts, Mahomes treasures time with his young family off the field.
Tech Savvy Interests
Contrary to the jock stereotype, Mahomes is quite the tech enthusiast. He’s invested in esports organizations like NRG and has even launched his own gaming organization, KC Prolific. Mahomes is known to be an avid gamer himself and streams on his personal Twitch channel, where over 300,000 fans follow to watch him play titles like Call of Duty and NBA 2K.
His embrace of gaming and esports culture has helped expand his already massive fanbase, particularly among younger demographics. It shows Mahomes’ willingness to try new ventures and stay engaged with fans through interactive platforms. His tech savviness and business acumen sets him apart from many athletes and demonstrates the wide range of interests he pursues outside of football.
Philanthropic Pursuits
While amassing fame and fortune as an NFL superstar, Mahomes has made giving back a priority as well. He established his own charitable foundation called “15 and the Mahomes Family Foundation” in 2019. The foundation focuses on improving the lives of children by supporting programs related to health, wellness, communities in need of resources and more.
Some of the causes the foundation has supported include donating to pandemic relief efforts, refurbishing local basketball courts, providing school supplies for underprivileged youth, and partnering with other charities. Mahomes also takes time to visit children’s hospitals to spread joy. His philanthropic work reflects his commitment to using his platform and resources to positively impact communities, especially those in need.
The Fun-Loving Personality
Of course, it’s impossible to talk about Mahomes without mentioning the infectious energy and personality he brings both on and off the field. He’s known throughout the league for his exuberant celebrations and sideline antics that keep fans constantly entertained. Whether it’s breaking out the “Tomahawk Chop” or his signature “Dab” dance in the end zone, Mahomes isn’t afraid to show his joy and let loose.
Teammates have described him as a jokester who’s always looking to lighten the mood. His fun-loving nature seems to rub off on those around him and helps create a loose, confident environment. Even during postgame interviews after tough losses, Mahomes maintains an optimistic demeanor. It’s clear he genuinely loves the game and competing at a high level while also soaking in the experience along the way. His magnetic personality is a big part of why he’s become one of the NFL’s most popular stars.
While Mahomes’ place in football history may be cemented by highlight reel throws and playoff heroics for years to come, he has proven to be so much more than just an athlete. His diverse array of interests from baseball to business, tech, gaming, philanthropy and beyond show a multidimensional individual who is constantly growing. By exploring these lesser known facets of Mahomes’ character, we gain further appreciation for his accomplishments and understand him as a well-rounded role model. As his career progresses, it will be fascinating to see where Mahomes’ unique talents and passions continue to take him both on and off the field.
