Patrick Mahomes has spent three years with the Kansas City Chiefs. In his first two seasons, the franchise won the Super Bowl, and he has become one of the best quarterbacks in American football. However, the outlook for the 2025-26 season seems different. Will this be a challenge for the Chiefs’ star?
All signs point to yes, especially after the roster changes following the NFL Draft. The team strengthened its offensive line with new additions and focused on preparing its veterans, which suggests a promising season ahead for Mahomes and the team. At least, that’s what the coaching staff hopes.
Does Patrick Mahomes still have the “fear factor”?
According to a report by Marca, things might be shifting for Patrick Mahomes. Some scouts believe his “fear factor” has faded, with some even saying it has declined. This perception could completely change how NFL teams prepare to face him.
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN shared a statement from an anonymous AFC scout who said, “He probably doesn’t have the same fear factor.” However, the scout didn’t rule out a comeback, noting that Mahomes could deliver a stronger performance this year, thanks to the current group of receivers and the reinforced offensive line.
One AFC scout says Patrick Mahomes probably doesn’t give opponents “that same fear factor” he did a few years ago
The scout expects the quarterback to bounce back in 2025(via ESPN) pic.twitter.com/jfG7BqhgPe
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Mahomes’ dominance on the field remains undeniable, and all eyes are on him and his close teammate Travis Kelce as the training camp approaches. This season will likely prove once again the consistency, resilience, and strength that have defined Mahomes since he joined the Chiefs.
Currently, ESPN’s rankings by coaches, scouts, and general managers are comparing Mahomes with emerging star players like Justin Herbert, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow. These names are now ranked ahead of Mahomes, after the Chiefs’ offensive line collapsed late last season, which hurt his performance and led the team to lose the Super Bowl.
To avoid a repeat, General Manager Brett Veach and Head Coach Andy Reid made key improvements through the Draft. According to critics, the Chiefs could become one of the strongest teams this season, thanks to standout players like Kadarius Toney, Rashee Rice, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling.