by # Beyond the Field: The Untold Secrets of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce’s Friendship
Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce are widely considered one of the best quarterback-tight end duos in the NFL. Their on-field chemistry has led the Kansas City Chiefs to great success, including a Super Bowl championship in 2020. However, there is more to their connection than what meets the eye on game day. Behind closed doors lies a deep friendship built on trust, respect and good-natured competition – one that serves as the foundation for their success.
## Pre-NFL Bond
While Mahomes and Kelce didn’t know each other in high school, their paths crossed early in their NFL careers. Both entered the league in 2017 – Mahomes as the 10th overall pick by the Chiefs, Kelce as a veteran entering his sixth season. As rookies, they bonded over long hours rehabbing injuries in the training room.
“We were both hurt that first season so we spent a lot of time together doing rehab and strengthening exercises,” recalls Kelce. “That’s when our friendship really started to form.”
Their shared experience of overcoming adversity as young players in the league helped forge a strong initial bond. But it was their work ethic and competitive spirit that truly connected them, according to teammates.
“You could just tell they brought out the best in each other,” says wide receiver Tyreek Hill. “They were always trying to one-up each other in the weight room or pushing each other to new limits in practice. It was fun to watch.”
Chiefs tight ends coach Tom Melvin played a key role in nurturing Mahomes and Kelce’s relationship early on. He recognized their potential as a dynamic duo and made sure to schedule one-on-one drills between them to build chemistry.
“Coach Melvin saw something special in those guys right away,” says former Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. “He knew if we could get them clicking, it would take our offense to new heights. A lot of credit goes to him for cultivating that partnership from the start.”
## Behind the Scenes Bond
Beyond the practice field and weight room, Mahomes and Kelce share a strong personal bond cultivated through late nights playing video games, bonding with families on fishing trips, and pushing each other’s limits in extreme sports.
One of their favorite pastimes is getting together for epic Madden tournaments that last well into the night. Kelce admits Mahomes usually wins because “he lives and breathes that game.” But the tight end isn’t afraid to talk trash along the way.
“I’ll be down by 20 and still find a way to comeback and talk crazy to him after,” laughs Kelce. “It’s all in good fun but we definitely get competitive with it.”
Their families have also become close, often vacationing together in the offseason. Mahomes’ fiancée Brittany and Kelce’s long-time girlfriend Kayla enjoy double dates and girls’ trips, giving their children a chance to bond as well.
“It’s cool seeing our kids play together,” says Mahomes. “They’re like little brothers and sisters now. I’m sure that relationship will only grow as they get older.”
The QB-TE duo also push each other physically with extreme sports like snowboarding, wakeboarding, and off-roading. Kelce admits he’s had to learn to keep up with Mahomes’ adventurous streak.
“Pat’s always trying to one-up me and do crazier stunts,” laughs Kelce. “But it’s fun competing against each other in those kinds of activities too. Keeps things interesting in the offseason.”
## Leadership Styles
On the field, Mahomes and Kelce lead by example with their work ethic, but also keep things lighthearted. Kelce isn’t afraid to chirp at his QB during games, keeping the mood upbeat even during tough stretches. And Mahomes plays along, appreciating Kelce’s comedic relief.
“Travis is always talking trash, whether we’re winning or losing,” says Mahomes. “It keeps everyone loose and having fun out there.”
Their leadership styles complement each other. Where Mahomes excels at making audibles and reading defenses, Kelce picks up teammates with emotional and vocal pep talks. Both men also lead philanthropic efforts in Kansas City, often collaborating on community projects.
“Pat’s a natural born leader but also a laid back dude,” says Kelce. “I’m a little more high energy and fiery. Together we find a good balance.”
That balance has paid off immensely on the field. Kelce says they have an “almost psychic” connection at this point, able to anticipate each other’s moves without words. But they also know when to put each other in check.
“If one of us is having an off day, the other isn’t afraid to speak up,” admits Mahomes. “We trust each other to give honest feedback so we can keep improving.”
## Game Day Rituals
While their pre-game routines vary, Mahomes and Kelce always find time for a brief chat before kickoff. Kelce says it’s to “get on the same page” before the chaos of the game begins.
“We’ll run through the game plan one last time and maybe crack a joke to stay loose,” explains Kelce. “But it’s mainly to connect and make sure we’re locked in together before battle.”
On game days, their non-verbal communication shines. With just a look or subtle gesture, they seem to know each other’s intentions. Former tight end coach Tom Melvin, now retired, marvels at their sixth sense.
“It was like they could read each other’s minds out there,” recalls Melvin. “A little head fake by Kelce and Mahomes knew right away he was breaking outside. It’s something special to witness.”
Even silly superstitions have become part of their game day traditions. Kelce always chews the same flavor of gum before games and Mahomes has a specific pre-game playlist he listens to on his headphones.
“Stuff like that just helps us relax and lock into our zone,” says Mahomes. “Every little thing counts on game day so we don’t want to break our routines.”
## The Future
While still in their primes, Mahomes and Kelce think about life after football and how their brotherhood will carry into future endeavors. Kelce sees them collaborating on business ventures like restaurants, real estate or charities focused on health and wellness.
“Pat and I want to keep making a positive impact in Kansas City for years to come,” says Kelce. “We work well together so I can see us joining forces on all kinds of projects down the road.”
Mahomes echoes Kelce’s sentiment about maintaining their strong bond post-football. He also looks forward to their children growing up as close friends like he and Kelce have become.
“This is a friendship that will last way beyond our playing careers,” says Mahomes. “Travis and I will always be brothers and I know we’ll find ways to stay connected, whether it’s working together or just hanging out with our families.”
Wherever life takes them after football, it’s clear Mahomes and Kelce have formed an unbreakable bond based on championship-level play, mutual respect and good old-fashioned fun. Their untold secrets reveal the deep personal relationship behind their prolific on-field production and championship pedigree. It’s a partnership that will surely continue to evolve for many years to come, whether between the lines or beyond.
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