Patrick Mahomes may not have the strongest arm in the NFL, but his game thrives on creativity and quick thinking, which is at the core of his success. Known as one of the smartest and most inventive quarterbacks in the league, Mahomes has an impressive array of throwing techniques that set him apart. His highlight-reel passes, including unforgettable moments like a falling pass completion in Super Bowl 57 and a behind-the-back throw during a preseason game last year, demonstrate the confidence and skill he consistently brings to the field.
Trey Smith Reflects on Mahomes’ Remarkable Playmaking
Even months after Mahomes’ famous preseason behind-the-back pass against the Detroit Lions, his right guard, Trey Smith, remembers the moment vividly. Speaking recently with the Kelce brothers, Smith expressed his admiration for Mahomes’ rare ability to extend plays and create something from nothing. Watching such feats in practice, Smith still finds Mahomes’ improvisational talent difficult to fully comprehend.
“I wasn’t used to someone extending the plays like that, making something out of nothing. He’s one of the best at extending plays to ever do. For me, man, it was difficult in the beginning, but the best part about it was just watching his greatness. It’s not like the big moments per se. It’s like little stuff he does in practice. Remember what game what play it was, where he did it, around the back behind you. Who the hell is going to be able to do this other than him?”
— Trey Smith, Kansas City Chiefs Right Guard
How a Broken Route Turned Into a Spectacular Highlight
The remarkable behind-the-back pass wasn’t scripted; it was made necessary by a miscommunication on the play. Travis Kelce, one of Mahomes’ most reliable receivers, ran the wrong route during the play. Despite their well-established chemistry, Kelce’s mistake briefly disrupted the intended outcome. This unexpected error forced Mahomes to think on his feet, transforming a flawed play into a standout moment through his improvisational expertise.
Kelce openly acknowledged his error but remained confident in Mahomes’ ability to fix the situation. This trust in his quarterback was proven correct when Mahomes executed a difficult, low catch assist that allowed Kelce to advance the ball for a first down.
“He made me look so good on that play knowing damn well that I was the one who fu*ked up the play where he had do something spectacular to make it look good. He’s one of a kind in that regard, man,”
Travis Kelce admitted.
Mahomes Explains the Unplanned Throw and Its Origin
Mahomes himself shared the story behind the play, explaining that the defense had prompted Kelce to run an out route, which the quarterback assumed would be recognized by his receiver. Instead, Kelce opted to block at the last moment, missing the designated pattern. Mahomes initially planned to scramble for the first down but noticed Kelce turning back toward him just in time.
Spurred by instinct and a mix of frustration, Mahomes made the spur-of-the-moment decision to launch the ball behind his back to Kelce, turning a potentially failed play into an extraordinary catch. This creative and partly reactive throw perfectly encapsulated Mahomes’ unpredictable style and quick thinking on the field.
Mahomes’ Playmaking Sets Him Apart Among Elite Quarterbacks
Such plays cannot be drawn up in a playbook but highlight the unique talent Mahomes brings to the quarterback position. His ability to improvise not only produces memorable moments but also gives him an edge over other top signal-callers like Josh Allen, Matthew Stafford, and Lamar Jackson, who each have their own specialties. While some quarterbacks rely on raw arm strength or running ability, Mahomes continually redefines what it means to lead an offense with his inventiveness and flair.
As the NFL season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching how Mahomes and Kelce’s chemistry evolves, along with the many ways Mahomes’ quick thinking can turn broken plays into game-changing opportunities.