Since Patrick Mahomes took over as the Kansas City Chiefs’ starting quarterback in 2018, the team has established itself as the NFL’s premier franchise. Over seven seasons, the Chiefs secured seven AFC West division titles, advanced to seven AFC Championship Games, made five Super Bowl appearances, and won three championships. Mahomes has been at the heart of this remarkable run, shaping the most successful era in franchise history.
This sustained success highlights the remarkable Patrick Mahomes impact on Kansas City Chiefs success, as the team has consistently performed at an elite level with him leading the offense.
Examining the Change in Mahomes’ Passing Performance
Despite the ongoing success, Mahomes’ passing statistics have seen a noticeable decline in the last two seasons. Comparing his averages from 2018-2022 with 2023-2024 reveals a substantial drop:
- Passing yards decreased from 4,791.4 to 4,055.5 per season
- Passing touchdowns fell from 38.4 to 26.5 per season
- Yards per attempt dropped from 8.1 to 6.9
This reduction of nearly 750 yards and 12 touchdowns per year, along with a yardage decline per attempt, is significant by any standard. If other top quarterbacks such as Joe Burrow or Josh Allen experienced similar declines, it would likely spark considerable criticism from Chiefs fans. However, the decline cannot be attributed to a drop in Mahomes’ skill or effort; rather, it reflects challenges elsewhere in the offense, especially at wide receiver and left tackle positions.
Maintaining Team Success Despite Statistical Declines
Remarkably, the Chiefs’ overall team success has not been negatively affected by Mahomes’ individual stat drop-off. The team has maintained or even improved key achievements when comparing the two periods:
- Average regular season wins remain strong, shifting slightly from 12.8 to 13 per season
- They have retained a perfect record in winning the AFC West division title (100% in both periods)
- AFC Championship Game appearances have stayed at 100%
- Super Bowl appearances increased from 60% to 100%
- Super Bowl victories rose from 40% to 50%
This consistency in high-level performance, despite reduced passing output, showcases the unique value Patrick Mahomes brings beyond just raw statistics.
Ways Mahomes Continues to Influence Victories
Patrick Mahomes’ ability to adapt and lead the Chiefs effectively, even with diminished passing numbers, amplifies his importance. His leadership and decision-making have allowed Kansas City to continue winning crucial games without the need for him to replicate his earlier prolific passing years. Experts recognize this adaptability as a major factor in the team’s ongoing dominance.
The decline in passing productivity aligns more with the instability in the supporting cast rather than Mahomes itself. Should players like Jaylon Moore or Josh Simmons solidify the left tackle position, and if receivers such as Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, and Xavier Worthy perform consistently, Mahomes could return to more prolific passing performances reminiscent of 2018-2022.
Looking Forward: What the Chiefs Need to Reignite Their Passing Game
It may not be entirely accurate to say Mahomes has been less prolific; instead, the broader passing game has struggled due to factors beyond his control. With stronger protection and improved receiving options, the Chiefs could see a resurgence in passing numbers, enhancing their already unbeatable record.
Nonetheless, history suggests that even without a dramatic statistical rebound, Mahomes will continue to lead Kansas City to success. His resilience and clutch performance serve as a foundation for the team’s achievements and ensure they remain favorites in the NFL.
“He’s made the most of an offense that was hanging on by a thread (and that thread was named Patrick Mahomes).”
—Fan
“Doesn’t that make Mahomes even more impressive? He’s finding a way to get the same results with even less production from his offensive supporting cast.”
—Fan
“Suppose either Jaylon Moore or Josh Simmons can stabilize the left tackle position, and Mahomes has a full season with a combination of Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, and Xavier Worthy at wide receiver. In that case, I’m guessing we’ll see passing numbers closer to what we saw in 2018–2022.”
—Fan