Patrick Mahomes is adopting a renewed mindset after the Kansas City Chiefs’ defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles in last season’s Super Bowl, hoping it will fuel future success. This perspective on growth after loss comes as the Chiefs prepare for the upcoming NFL season, with insights from former Super Bowl champion Mark Schlereth adding context to Mahomes’ approach.
Former Champion Comments on Mahomes’ Attitude and Team Preparation
Mark Schlereth, who earned Super Bowl rings with the Denver Broncos and Washington Redskins, shared his thoughts on Mahomes’ mindset and readiness at the Chiefs’ training camp. Speaking on the program Breakfast Ball, Schlereth emphasized the importance of team leaders recommitting themselves during the offseason.
“If the leaders of your team have re-committed themselves and have come into training camp in shape, and all those things are OTA’s and are there participating,” Schlereth said at 0:07. “That can only be a good thing for the Kansas City Chiefs.” —Mark Schlereth, Former Super Bowl Champion
Schlereth also expressed hopes to see more competition within the AFC West division, specifically mentioning rival teams like the Broncos and Chargers.
“I am hoping that somebody jumps over the top whether it’s the Broncos, whether it’s the Chargers… not the Raiders, that would hurt me deep down to the core,” Schlereth said at 0:19. —Mark Schlereth, Former Super Bowl Champion
Patrick Mahomes on Using Defeat as Motivation
Mahomes spoke candidly about how losing the Super Bowl provides additional drive during offseason workouts. In an interview with USA Today, he noted that the disappointment delivers a unique push to train harder.
“When you lose a Super Bowl, I think there’s sometimes in those workouts – you might be a little tired – (but) you have that extra, added motivation to finish even harder or finish even stronger.” —Patrick Mahomes, Quarterback
Despite the setback, Mahomes has maintained a consistent record of leading the Chiefs deep into the playoffs. The team has secured nine consecutive AFC West titles and has not missed the postseason since 2014. However, they fell short of securing a third straight Super Bowl championship, with this loss marking Mahomes’ second Super Bowl defeat as a starting quarterback.
The Significance of Mahomes’ Fresh Appearance and Team Renewal
Moving beyond mindset, Mahomes introduced a distinct change in his appearance during recent organized team activities (OTAs) by unveiling a new, shorter haircut. The quarterback explained this shift as part of shedding past superstitions attached to his long hair, which coincided with the Chiefs’ consecutive Super Bowl victories.
“I look way better now with the short hair, so I’ll be keeping it going forward,” Mahomes said on Thursday. —Patrick Mahomes, Quarterback
Throughout his career, Mahomes’ long hair became a symbol tied to his success, including two NFL MVP awards and consistent Super Bowl appearances. This offseason change may symbolize a fresh start as he aims to return his team to championship contention once again.
Notably, Mahomes has never been eliminated before the AFC Championship Game as a starting quarterback, underscoring his leadership and skill. This fresh mindset and new look could become valuable components in the Chiefs’ preparation for the challenges ahead.