KANSAS CITY, Mo. - It doesn't matter how long you play any sport. There will always be a time when even those with modest talent will have to find a way to "step up their game!"
The learning curve in the National Football League, however, does not allow much time to get comfy and cozy. Players, especially quarterbacks, get thrown into the fire right away and are expected to be instantly successful.
The Chiefs have said since the 2017 draft how much they love everything about Patrick Mahomes. Kansas City is in a unique position. How many teams win back-to-back conference titles and send their starting QB packing? That's how much KC's front office, coaching staff, and players believe in Mahomes: they traded Alex Smith to Washington following his best season as a Chief.
We've heard about and seen all the intangibles and now with the first preseason game jitters out of the way, we will likely see a more mature and developed signal caller.
So what if Mahomes struggled at times during training camp? Name one player in the NFL Hall of Famer who was perfect for every game, every snap or every practice. Training camp is for working on the playbook and pushing the boundaries and limitations.
Andy Reid actually praised Mahomes for having the "intestinal fortitude" to run the offense. Perhaps the biggest proof Mahomes is turning into a leader is that he continues to take responsibility when things go wrong with this offense and praises all of the moving parts when things are successful.
Mahomes is proving to be quite selfless and is bringing a new energy to Chiefs fans all over the Kingdom.
