Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has recently become the target of harsh criticism concerning his physical condition, sparking widespread backlash among NFL fans. This controversy unfolded after local radio host Kevin Kietzman publicly questioned Mahomes’ fitness during a podcast episode earlier in July 2025.
Controversial Comments About Mahomes’ Offseason Conditioning
Despite being recognized as one of the NFL’s greatest talents, Mahomes faced ridicule from Kietzman, who disparaged the quarterback’s physique, referring to him as having a “dad bod.” During his podcast, Kietzman openly mocked Mahomes by calling him “fat” and “an embarrassment,” criticizing his offseason preparation as inadequate.
Vacation photos are popping up of Patrick Mahomes, and he’s fat,
Kietzman said.
I’m gonna say it, and I’m gonna tell you the truth. He’s an embarrassment.
Kietzman went on to emphasize Mahomes’ status as a high-paid athlete, insisting the quarterback’s body did not reflect the effort expected of someone of his caliber.
You’re a $500 million quarterback,
Kietzman continued.
You’ve made all these comments in the offseason that, ‘We’re gonna do our talking on the field, we got our butts kicked in the Super Bowl, we’re coming back with a vengeance’… Dude, you’re fat. Your belly would be fat at my pool, hanging out with us 60-year-olds. Stop. Stop the fast food. Do a sit-up. Do something.
Public Backlash and Calls for Consequences
The comments quickly drew fierce reactions from NFL supporters, who condemned Kietzman’s remarks as unprofessional and disrespectful. Many fans expressed their support for Mahomes and criticized the host’s approach, some demanding his removal from the radio station.
Reactions ranged from frustration over the unnecessary negativity to outright defense of Mahomes’ success and conditioning.
“That’s crazy jealousy talk! Let’s see every armchair expert work out along side Patrick and prove who is really fit.”
“What a lazy ‘take’ from this dude. Mahomes has been to how AFC Championship games? How many Super Bowls? Whatever the heck he is doing to prepare – is working! Chiefs are blessed to have Mahomes at QB.”
“That dude is a piece of trash on a personal and professional level.”
“Wow. Some people will do anything for clicks. Even knock on a guy who’s been to the SB like 5 times since he became a starter…in 2018! This guys a hack.”
“Stop giving this clown the time of day. This is what he wants.”
Patrick Mahomes’ Trainer Defends His Condition
Mahomes himself has yet to respond to the criticism, but his trainer, Bobby Stroupe, challenged Kietzman’s claims, highlighting the physical demands of Mahomes’ position and preparation.
You obviously need attention. If you want to see what in shape is – go make it through a practice at Saint Jo or run hurry up offense scrambling back to back to back plays. You don’t have a clue what it takes. It’s not a look, it’s performance,
Stroupe said.
Stroupe’s defense points to the rigorous nature of professional football, suggesting that external appearances do not fully represent a player’s fitness or readiness.
Upcoming Season Will Test Mahomes’ Ability to Quiet Critics
This episode has intensified the ongoing debate over Patrick Mahomes’ fitness, raising questions about the expectations placed on elite athletes and the scrutiny they face. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, fans and analysts alike will closely monitor whether Mahomes’ performance on the field dispels doubts about his conditioning.
Given Mahomes’ track record—including multiple Super Bowl appearances and MVP titles—many expect him to prove his critics wrong through continued success with the Kansas City Chiefs.