Patrick Mahomes: More Than Just a Star Quarterback
Patrick Mahomes is undoubtedly one of the biggest stars in the NFL today. As the quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, he has cemented himself as one of the most talented passers the league has ever seen. At just 27 years old, Mahomes already has a Super Bowl MVP and championship ring to his name. However, there is more to Mahomes than what meets the eye on the football field. Away from the bright lights and packed stadiums, Mahomes shows glimpses into his personal interests and commitments outside of the game. While football will always be his top priority, these outside pursuits give valuable insight into Mahomes the man.
Family Man
One of the clearest looks into Mahomes’s life away from football is his devotion to his family. In high school, Mahomes met Brittany Matthews and the two began dating. They have now been together for over a decade and married in 2022. The couple already have two young daughters – Sterling Skye born in 2021 and twins born in 2022.
Friends and teammates of Mahomes often remark how family always comes first for him. Even during the intense NFL season, Mahomes makes sure to carve out quality time for his wife and kids. There are stories of him cooking meals for his family, giving his daughters baths, and telling them bedtime stories. Mahomes even celebrates his daughters’ small milestones like first steps on social media with glee.
Brittany is also a constant presence at Chiefs games and can be spotted cheering her husband on from the sidelines. The couple frequently posts adoring photos together on their social media. It is evident that Mahomes finds solace and happiness in spending time with his young family away from the pressures of pro football. Family grounds him and reminds him of his responsibilities beyond his day job. Mahomes credits his tight-knit support system for keeping him focused on what really matters in life.
Baseball Roots
Before committing fully to football, Mahomes showed immense promise in baseball as well during his high school days in Texas. He was an excellent pitcher who could throw with raw power and accuracy. Mahomes nearly chose a career in professional baseball over the NFL, but ultimately picked football due to greater athletic scholarship opportunities. However, his baseball skills have certainly translated well to his quarterback play.
Even today, Mahomes’ fondness for baseball lingers. He is known to take in a Kansas City Royals game whenever his schedule permits. Mahomes has also trained with former MLB pitcher Tom House to refine his throwing mechanics. There is no doubt that his baseball background contributed significantly to Mahomes’ cannon-like arm and pinpoint accuracy as an NFL passer.
During offseasons, Mahomes can sometimes be seen playing catch, taking batting practice, or participating in baseball soft-toss drills to stay loose. His fluid overhand motion and ability to drive a ball with zip are trademarks that he attributes to honing his skills on the pitcher’s mound. While he may never suit up for a MLB team professionally, baseball remains a personal interest and helpful supplementary training activity for Mahomes. It’s a connection to his athletic roots that he holds closely.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
In addition to family and sports, Mahomes is passionate about philanthropy and helping better his community. In 2020, he launched the 15 and the Mahomies charitable foundation together with his long-time girlfriend Brittany Matthews (who is now his wife).
The foundation aims to improve the lives of children in underserved areas through various programs focused on health, wellness, and equal opportunities. It specifically targets communities in Texas and Kansas City. In the two years since its inception, 15 and the Mahomies has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars towards building new football fields, providing school supplies, funding medical services, and more.
Mahomes has also used his massive platform and fame for good. He has advocated for social justice causes like LeBron James’ More Than a Vote initiative, which focuses on increasing voter registration and fighting voter suppression targeting minority communities. Mahomes believes it’s his duty as a role model to empower and give a voice to the underprivileged.
His charitable efforts demonstrate the strong compassionate nature beneath Mahomes’ elite athletic talents. Even with his busy NFL schedule, Mahomes makes it a priority to give back through 15 and the Mahomies foundation. He understands the power of his celebrity and influence to enact real change. Giving to philanthropic causes clearly means a lot to Mahomes on a personal level beyond just his on-field accomplishments.
Social Activism and Advocacy
Closely related to his philanthropy work is Mahomes’ active support for social justice initiatives. As one of the most recognizable black athletes in America’s most popular sport, he has consistently used his platform to advocate for important social causes.
During the peak of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, Mahomes participated in players’ discussions on how the NFL could better support racial equality and fight systemic injustice. He was vocal in his backing of peaceful protests like kneeling during the national anthem. Mahomes believes athletes have a responsibility to use their visibility for the greater good of their communities.
More recently, Mahomes campaigned vigorously for LeBron James’ More Than a Vote organization ahead of the 2020 elections. He recorded public service announcements and encouraged fans to register to vote through his massive social media presence. The goal was combating voter suppression efforts targeting minorities and empowering marginalized voices.
Mahomes also donated generously to More Than a Vote’s efforts setting up voting locations, providing free transportation for voters, and promoting civic participation especially in at-risk demographics. He stressed the importance of equal access and removal of barriers preventing full representation.
These actions demonstrate Mahomes’ personal commitment to social progress beyond just lip service. He understands the real influence athletes can wield for change and is active rather than passive in supporting equality movements. While football remains the central focus of his career, Mahomes ensures he uses his platform to advocate for justice and human rights too.
Hobbies and Interests
Aside from family, sports, and social causes, Mahomes also finds time to indulge some more leisurely personal hobbies and interests. He is an avid gamer in his downtime and can often be found streaming himself playing video games online. FPS and battle royale titles like Call of Duty are among Mahomes’ favorites.
Gaming provides a fun mental escape and stress relief from the pressures of the NFL. It also allows Mahomes to casually interact and build community with fans online. His gaming streams have amassed huge followings of their own.
Mahomes also enjoys exploring new restaurants and cuisines whenever he travels. As an elite athlete, he is health-conscious but believes in treating himself occasionally. Photos on his social media document Mahomes sampling local delicacies on the road. He has even picked up some basic cooking skills of his own over the years.
When weather permits, Mahomes likes spending time outdoors as well. He goes fishing, boating, hiking, and engages in other activities to appreciate nature. Traveling and experiencing new places also fascinates Mahomes beyond football cities. Balance and variety help recharge him for his grueling NFL duties.
Conclusion
While his primary focus will always be leading the Chiefs to glory on the gridiron, Patrick Mahomes’ life is far more multidimensional than just his on-field exploits. Glimpses into interests like family, baseball, philanthropy, social advocacy, gaming, travel, and more offer a well-rounded view of him as a person rather than simply an athlete.
Mahomes understands the responsibilities that come with being a role model and celebrity. He strives to use his platform purposefully for empowering communities and bettering people’s lives. Football is his profession, but Mahomes’ priorities extend far beyond victories and stats. His dedication to loved ones, communities, and personal growth make him an inspiring figure in and out of sports. There is no doubt Mahomes’ impact will continue resonating beyond his playing career for generations to come.
As celebrities and athletes alike gathered for this charitable occasion, Travis Kelce, known for his prowess on the football field, took center stage with an impressive display of athleticism.
© Sam Greene / USA TODAY NETWORK
