The last ten years in sports have been defined by transcendent athletes who have redefined excellence in their respective fields. From LeBron James’ ageless dominance in the NBA to Lionel Messi’s continued mastery of football, the competition for the title of the greatest athlete of the decade is fierce. Yet, standing above them all is Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs’ superstar quarterback, whose meteoric rise, unparalleled achievements, and sheer impact on the game of football have solidified his place as the preeminent athlete of the last ten years.
When Mahomes entered the NFL in 2017 as the 10th overall pick, few could have predicted the seismic shift he would bring to the league. Drafted under the tutelage of veteran Alex Smith, Mahomes spent his rookie season learning, but by 2018, he exploded onto the scene with one of the greatest single-season performances in NFL history. Throwing for 5,097 yards and 50 touchdowns, he became just the second quarterback ever to achieve both feats in the same season, joining Peyton Manning. His no-look passes, sidearm bullets, and Houdini-like escapes from pressure became instant highlights, showcasing a style of play that was as innovative as it was effective. That year, he won the NFL MVP award, announcing himself as the league’s next great superstar.
What separates Mahomes from his peers is not just his statistical brilliance but his ability to deliver in the most high-pressure moments. Since becoming a starter, he has led the Chiefs to six consecutive AFC Championship Games, four Super Bowl appearances, and three championships (as of 2024). His first Super Bowl victory in 2020 was a testament to his resilience—trailing by 10 points in the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers, Mahomes engineered a stunning comeback, throwing two touchdowns in the final six minutes to secure the Lombardi Trophy. That performance earned him Super Bowl MVP honors, cementing his status as a clutch performer.
His second Super Bowl win in 2023 further solidified his legacy. Facing the Philadelphia Eagles in a shootout, Mahomes battled through a high ankle sprain—an injury that would sideline most players—and still delivered a legendary performance, throwing for three touchdowns and 182 yards in the second half alone. His ability to elevate his game when it mattered most has drawn comparisons to Tom Brady, but Mahomes’ unique skill set—blending arm talent, mobility, and football IQ—makes him a singular force in NFL history.
Beyond the trophies and accolades, Mahomes has revolutionized the quarterback position. His playing style has inspired a new generation of quarterbacks to embrace creativity and improvisation, proving that the position isn’t just about precision passing but also about making the impossible possible. Coaches and analysts often speak of “Mahomes plays”—those moments where he turns certain sacks into first downs or launches a 50-yard bomb off his back foot. His influence extends beyond the Chiefs; the entire league has adapted to his playmaking ability, with defenses scrambling to find ways to contain a player who seems to defy the laws of physics.
Off the field, Mahomes has been just as impactful. His marketability rivals that of any athlete in the world, with endorsement deals from brands like Adidas, State Farm, and Oakley. He has leveraged his fame to give back, founding the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation, which supports underserved youth through initiatives focused on health, wellness, and education. His charismatic personality and humble demeanor have made him a beloved figure, not just in Kansas City but across the sports world.
Comparing Mahomes to other athletes of the decade only reinforces his case. LeBron James has continued to dominate into his late 30s, but his peak years were arguably in the previous decade. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, while still phenomenal, are in the twilight of their careers. Younger stars like Shohei Ohtani and Connor McDavid have made compelling cases, but neither has matched Mahomes’ combination of team success, individual awards, and cultural influence. In a league as competitive as the NFL, where careers can be derailed by injuries or rapid declines, Mahomes has maintained an unprecedented level of excellence.
Perhaps the most telling evidence of Mahomes’ greatness is how he has transformed the Chiefs from a perennial playoff disappointment into a dynasty. Before his arrival, the Chiefs had not reached a Super Bowl in 50 years. Since 2019, they have been the NFL’s most dominant franchise, with Mahomes as the undisputed leader. His partnership with head coach Andy Reid has produced one of the most potent offenses in league history, and his ability to elevate those around him—whether it’s Travis Kelce, Tyreek Hill (before his trade to Miami), or a rotating cast of receivers—speaks to his leadership and unselfishness.
As the 2024 season approaches, Mahomes shows no signs of slowing down. At just 28 years old, he is already a lock for the Hall of Fame, yet his best years may still be ahead of him. The Chiefs remain the team to beat in the NFL, and with Mahomes under center, they will continue to be Super Bowl favorites for the foreseeable future.
In a decade defined by incredible athletic achievements, Patrick Mahomes stands alone. His combination of skill, success, and influence is unmatched, making him not just the greatest football player of the last ten years, but the greatest athlete of them all. The heartbeat of the Chiefs and a once-in-a-generation talent, Mahomes has redefined what it means to be a quarterback—and in doing so, has etched his name into the pantheon of sports legends. The next decade may bring new challengers, but for now, the era belongs to Patrick Mahomes.
