Patrick Mahomes lack motivation to be even better: NFL analyst weighs in, Mahomes’ success hides struggles against lesser opponents

When the Chiefs won the Lombardi Trophy in February, it was Patrick Mahomes’ third Super Bowl victory before turning 29. But according to NFL analyst Chris Simms, there’s more to Mahomes’ success than meets the eye.

Simms revealed on his Unbuttoned podcast that Mahomes can struggle against weaker opponents, showing signs of complacency and boredom. “Some of his worst games were against the worst competition,” Simms explained. This surprising revelation sheds light on the psychological challenges Mahomes faces, despite his incredible talent and game-winning drives.

Simms attributes this “Red Zone Blahs” to Mahomes’ relentless competitive nature. He described how Mahomes reacts to offensive stagnation, saying: “Wait, it was three and out. I gotta make something happen now.” This highlights Mahomes’ inner drive to push through obstacles, but it also exposes his impatience within the system.

Simms delved into Mahomes’ mentality, revealing that the quarterback’s desire to create magic on the field can lead to impulsive decisions. “He wants to be Mr. Magic Man,” Simms said, recounting Mahomes’ own admission. This insight provides a glimpse into the delicate balance Mahomes must maintain between his killer instinct and avoiding detrimental habits.

Even when bored and frustrated, Mahomes remains a formidable force in the NFL. Despite his admitted “worst” campaign, the Chiefs still secured their third Lombardi Trophy in four years. This raises the question: What will Mahomes achieve when he’s fully focused from the start of a game? It’s a daunting prospect for opposing defensive coordinators.

Looking ahead, Mahomes’ trajectory suggests he is on his way to being regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. His accomplishments already rival those of legendary signal-callers like Tom Brady and Joe Montana. As CBS Sports declared, “Mahomes is on a trajectory to be considered among the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.”

Mahomes’ ability to overcome internal challenges and continue to excel on the field sets the stage for an exciting future. As he refines his skills and maintains his competitive fire, the NFL can expect even more remarkable performances from him.