Pat Mahomes (2017 QB Draft Prospect)

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Not gonna say much.. just going to drop this video here so you can check this guy out if you hadn't. I hadn't until today, and I really like his raw ability.

#1 thing that sticks out to me is he can really evade rushers and chuck it on the run. Amazing raw arm talent.

As long as Reid is calling plays, we need a QB who can make up for his conservative ways. Save your comments about how the Chiefs will never take a QB, because that's bullsh*t. If they find the right one, they will. I think this could be him.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CdlpfRRLGHY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Tribal Warfare]

I called this kid too

[Reerun_KC]

I called this kid too

Did he answer? What did you all talk about?

[Tribal Warfare]

Did he answer? What did you all talk about?

Well, I thought he was Steph Curry with a helmet on so got him on the horn he said "No Bro, my dad played MLB"./sarcasm

[Discuss Thrower]

He won't make it out of the top half of the draft.

If they take a QB before the 4th round, it'll be either the guy from VT or Cal.

If they take a QB after that, it'll be Beathard.

[Kman34]

Will he last till the 4-7th round... cause you know...........Chiefs

[pugsnotdrugs19]

He won't make it out of the top half of the draft.

If they take a QB before the 4th round, it'll be either the guy from VT or Cal.

If they take a QB after that, it'll be Beathard.

Right now there's a lot of talk of him being a 2nd-3rd round prospect. Teams are scared of the system he comes from.

You might be right, but I think right now he would have a chance to be there at 27.

[Tribal Warfare]

Right now there's a lot of talk of him being a 2nd-3rd round prospect. Teams are scared of the system he comes from.

You might be right, but I think right now he would have a chance to be there at 27.

If the organization believes he's their guy then they'll trade up for him.

[RunKC]

I talked about this kid 3 weeks ago. He's a great fit.

Trubisky, Kizer and Watson will all go ahead of him. He'll be there IMO

[pugsnotdrugs19]

I like Watson's talent but I have a feeling he will be injury prone in the league... that video of him power cleaning certainly swayed my perception.

This would be my guy now.

[Mr_Tomahawk]

Shame on all of you for getting your hopes up...

[ChiTown]

Shame on all of you for getting your hopes up...

http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/headshots/nfl/players/full/16252.png&w=350&h=254

[Red Dawg]

I'm all in for a young QB. This one will do fine.

[Reerun_KC]

NO excuses this year not to take a QB in rounds 1 or 2...

[Willie Lanier]

He has a weird throwing motion, but other than that, he looks pretty damn enticing

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Did some more digging on Mahomes.... get this.

Due to his ability to evade rushers and throw on the run both directions, some are saying he has a ceiling that compares to Aaron Rodgers. But, with this unorthodox style, comes a very low floor.

I say let him sit for a year maybe.

[Mr_Tomahawk]

Weak arm.

Pass.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Weak arm.

Pass.

Huh?

[Titty Meat]

Meh

[Mr_Tomahawk]

Huh?

Fine.

I'm in.

He can backup Bray.

[mnchiefsguy]

NO excuses this year not to take a QB in rounds 1 or 2...

I agree. Plenty of draft picks, and we are picking at the bottom of the first round.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

We're in a perfect spot to take a talented, perhaps raw guy who can sit for a year or take the job straight up in camp.

I'd be pissed as ever if they pass on a QB in the early rounds.

[ChiTown]

We're in a perfect spot to take a talented, perhaps raw guy who can sit for a year or take the job straight up in camp.

I'd be pissed as ever if they pass on a QB in the early rounds.

Prepare thyself to be pissed....

[Discuss Thrower]

Should have taken Derek Carr over Dee Ford.

[FlaChief58]

NO excuses this year not to take a QB in rounds 1 or 2...

But then we'll miss out on our next HOF fattie

[Palko 4 ever]

Nah, too risky, lets draft a Guard. /truefans

[Hammock Parties]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be fucking LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.

[notorious]

Too risky.

Draft fatties.

[jjchieffan]

Okay. Let's say that we feel that he is top 10 worthy on Dorsey's board and he is still there at 10. I googled draft trade chart and the chart I found gave the numer 10 pick worth 1300 and the 27 worth 680, so we would need 620 points in draft value to move up to 10. That would mean our 1st, 2nd and 3rd would still not be enough. The Bills pick at 10. I'm not sure that they would be willing to pass on a quarterback but maybe they would be willing to take Alex Smith in the trade? I would package Alex Smith and our first to move up for him if Dorsey and Reid think he's the guy. Hand the Reigns to Foles for a year. If we take a step back, we take a step back. It would be so worth it if he pans out. Plus, we still have all the rest of our draft picks. Who knows if the Bills would make that trade, but you never know. Cleveland traded the number 2 away last year instead of drafting Wentz. And the Bills would be getting a starting quarterback to stabilize the position like KC did when they got him. I seriously doubt this would ever happen. But a guy can dream.

[KINGPIN CHIEFS FAN]

I didn't see any quick outs or screen passes. What are you trying to do? Make the opponents defense have to defend the whole field? We're the Chiefs and we don't play that game homey.

[Why Not?]

Stopped reading at QB. Not going to happen

[jjchieffan]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be ****ing LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.

I don't know about that. I have read up on him. His stock is rising. Some experts have him as the number 2 QB in the draft. He is looking like he could easily go top 10. Still a long ways to draft day, so who knows?

[Mr_Tomahawk]

Boner

I mean, bump


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[kccrow]

The only reason this kid could sniff the first 2 rounds is because there's such little talent overall at the position in this draft and there are far too many teams that need a QB in the NFL. He's got alot of flaws. Late day 2 pick at best.

[New World Order]

Fine.

I'm in.

He can backup Bray.


LMAO

[RealSNR]

Too risky.

Draft fatties.

I mean, the guy looks kind of fat for a QB.

Was that what you were thinking of?

[Mr_Tomahawk]

1-Jabril Peppers - S
MICHIGAN

2-TJ Watt - OLB
WISC

3-Pat Mahomes - QB
TTU

3-Rasul Douglas - CB
WEST VIRGINIA

4-KD Cannon - WR
BAYLOR

5-JJ DIelman - OT
UTAH

5-Deveon SMITH - RB
MICHIGAN

6-Damien Mama - G
USC

6-James Onwaulu - DE
NOTRE DAME

7-Lewis Neal - DE
Barber Shop

[Mr_Tomahawk]

Bump


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[TribalElder]

Seems like the Virginia Tech QB was pretty good

[TribalElder]

Jerod Evans - Virginia Tech

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIQ4qQNNk0M

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerod_Evans

[DaneMcCloud]

The only reason this kid could sniff the first 2 rounds is because there's such little talent overall at the position in this draft and there are far too many teams that need a QB in the NFL. He's got alot of flaws. Late day 2 pick at best.

I'm guessing you're stationed on Antarctica because you are so out of touch

[TribalElder]

Down 24-0 to Arkansas toward the end of the third

Comes back and hangs 35 points to win
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/2016_Belk_Bowl

He probably stays in school LMAO

[kccrow]

I'm guessing you're stationed on Antarctica because you are so out of touch

He's going to go round 1 just like Lynch because of need. I wasn't clear. I'd grade him a late day 2 pick at best in any draft with any reasonable amount of QB talent. I think if KC takes a QB in the draft, this is the guy and they do it day 1. I hope they do.

[Danguardace]

Only thing that puts me off this guy is the system. Leach/Airraid/Texas Tech system guys have yet to work out in the NFL. Kiper did point out in a recent Podcast that this guy is different because of his athletic ability.

[Danguardace]

He's going to go round 1 just like Lynch because of need. I wasn't clear. I'd grade him a late day 2 pick at best in any draft with any reasonable amount of QB talent. I think if KC takes a QB in the draft, this is the guy and they do it day 1. I hope they do.

Can we see your list of grades? I honestly dont get when people say this guy is a this or a that unless you have evaluated the entire draft; and even then it still sounds bogus.

[Deberg_1990]

He has a weird throwing motion, but other than that, he looks pretty damn enticing

Yea. His throwing motion and pocket demeanor look almost lackadaisical It's weird

[Chief Northman]

This kid will get wrecked in the NFL.

Pass.

[St. Patty's Fire]

his release almost looks like a slingshot

he seems like a project but he clearly has talent. i'd definitely take a flyer on him. dont think id take him at 27 though.

[Dayze]

if the Chiefs actually draft a QB in the 1st, it might get my hopes up about this team again.
if the Chiefs release Alex or trade, it might get my hopes up about this team again.

as it is now...pfffft.
It's all just jerking off.
I'll watch pre-season next year, not knowing who anyone on the team is (like i've done for the past 4 years), because the team is such a failure I won't pay attention to off season transactions/trades/signings and who's who. etc.


This team is like an Adam Sandler movie; let's get together all the same bad actors and un-funny script and make a movie. It'll be good this time, I promise.

[RealSNR]

I hope Alex Smith gets his arms cut off in an accident caused by a drunk chainsaw-juggling clown at his kid's birthday

[RunKC]

Alex Marvez

.@PatrickMahomes5 tells @Gil_Brandt & me on @SiriusXMNFL he's working w/QB guru Mike Sheppard for pre-draft prep. Footwork/classwork focus

[RealSNR]

Alex Marvez

.@PatrickMahomes5 tells @Gil_Brandt & me on @SiriusXMNFL he's working w/QB guru Mike Sheppard for pre-draft prep. Footwork/classwork focus

Great. Not only is he a bad dancer, but he's also stupid.

Are there any undrafted "Fuck it I'm going deep" Tyler Bray types available this year?

[ILChief]

I like him but he may need to sit for a while. There will be a bigger than normal learning curve due to the weird offense Texas Tech runs. Need to keep foles around if we draft him

[Discuss Thrower]

This team is like an Adam Sandler movie; let's get together all the same bad actors and un-funny script and make a movie. It'll be good this time, I promise.

<a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/user/tnmountie/media/Thats-Gold-Jerry-Gold-Kenny-Bania-Seinfeld-Quote_zps4b775d39.gif.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa146/tnmountie/Thats-Gold-Jerry-Gold-Kenny-Bania-Seinfeld-Quote_zps4b775d39.gif" border="0" alt=" photo Thats-Gold-Jerry-Gold-Kenny-Bania-Seinfeld-Quote_zps4b775d39.gif"/></a>

[RunKC]

The system is not an issue guys. Watch his highlights. It's the same plays Andy runs. People just forget that our offense has a ton of spread concepts in it to help Alex Smith.

The biggest problem I see from this kid is his footwork. He throws off his back foot far too often and gets happy feet when he moves around a little too much.

Those are correctable flaws that we can fix with coaching. I mean FFS, Aaron Rodgers had a some pretty damning flaws that GB needed to clean up like him holding the football next his damn ear when he was at Cal.

He's a damn good fit and I hope we take him. He'd be awesome here

[Reerun_KC]

This kid will get wrecked in the NFL.

Pass.

More fatties that hold in the biggest game in decades?

[farmerchief]

The system is not an issue guys. Watch his highlights. It's the same plays Andy runs. People just forget that our offense has a ton of spread concepts in it to help Alex Smith.

The biggest problem I see from this kid is his footwork. He throws off his back foot far too often and gets happy feet when he moves around a little too much.

Those are correctable flaws that we can fix with coaching. I mean FFS, Aaron Rodgers had a some pretty damning flaws that GB needed to clean up like him holding the football next his damn ear when he was at Cal.

He's a damn good fit and I hope we take him. He'd be awesome here


A few things I noticed, when he scrambles away from the pocket , he is still looking to complete the deep pass, and looks to have the arm strength to do it. In similar situations Alex is looking to run and/ or complete the shortest pass available to him. Haven't watched Tech much. But do they run any plays under center? That's one of the stumbling blocks with Paxton Lynch, but he should get better with time. How is Mahomes at reading defenses?

[InChiefsHeaven]

More fatties that hold in the biggest game in decades?

THIS TIME IT'LL WORK!!!

[Mr_Tomahawk]

DRAFT HIM TOMORROW!

[Palko 4 ever]

His ability to keep his eyes downfield while evading pressure and still be able to throw a deep ball accurately is something this offense desperately needs.

Alex Smith is horrible at throwing on the run, if he gets flushed out of the pocket the play is pretty much over because he doesn't keep his eyes downfield and doesn't have the arm strength to throw deep while on the run.

[MahiMike]

I zeroed in on him today myself after reading Walter football:

Height: 6-3. Weight: 219.
Projected 40 Time: 4.68.
Projected Round (2017): 1-3.
1/9/17: WalterFootball.com was the first to report that Mahomes was planning on entering the 2017 NFL Draft, and he announced that in early January. Mahomes is seeking out experienced NFL quarterback coaches to help him develop for his rookie season. Mahomes completed 66 percent of his passes in 2016 for 5,052 yards with 41 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He also rushed for 12 touchdowns.

Some team sources are intrigued by Mahomes, but others are skeptics. Mahomes has a good arm and has flashed the ability to be a pocket passer. He also has athleticism with enough mobility to buy time and pick up some yards on the ground. Mahomes is a sleeper who could be a steal.

One playoff team told me they have a second-round grade on Mahomes and compare him to Derek Carr coming out of Fresno State. Two other teams said they had Mahomes in the third round, while one playoff general manager said he had him in Round 4. There is love/hate with Mahomes in part because of his college offense, but Mahomes is an accurate passer with a good arm, bulk, flashes of field vision, and mobility.

7/29/16: Mahomes plays in a gimmick college offense that produces a lot of points, but Mahomes has shown potential to get NFL consideration. In 2015, he completed 64 percent for 4,653 yards with 36 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. It was a big improvement over his freshman season when he completed 57 percent of his passes for 1,547 yards with 16 touchdowns and four interceptions.


Read more at http://mail.walterfootball.com/draft2017QB.php#tcvdw5vgUaY88OHb.99

[Rooster]

This team is like an Adam Sandler movie; let's get together all the same bad actors and un-funny script and make a movie. It'll be good this time, I promise.

ROFL and chances are if it's on TV I will watch.

[carcosa]

Well, I thought he was Steph Curry with a helmet on so got him on the horn he said "No Bro, my dad played MLB"./sarcasm

why was he being sarcastic

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Mahomes just has some unique ability in him, I feel like. Trubisky feels like a game manager in waiting, Watson has the skill but I'm concerned about how he will hold up in the league physically, and Kizer has a high ceiling..

Of course, a lot of the decision comes down to interviews and checking into a guy's personality, but I really like Mahomes' raw talent. Does things that most can't/won't do.

I honestly think unless he starts shooting up draft boards, he can be had in the 2nd round. Maybe a trade up, but he could definitely be there and allow us to take another need in the first such as ILB.

[wazu]

Why do this to yourselves? Just stop. Take whatever hope you have left that the Chiefs will draft a QB, place them in front of you, and then smash them with a hammer right now.

[carcosa]

If Mahomes is there in the 2nd and the Chiefs don't take him we should burn Arrowhead to the ground

[RunKC]

SiriusXM NFL Radio

.@TexasTechFB QB @PatrickMahomes5 says he received 2nd round grade from #NFL advisory board, prompting his decision to enter draft #GunsUp

[Coochie liquor]

Why do this to yourselves? Just stop. Take whatever hope you have left that the Chiefs will draft a QB, place them in front of you, and then smash them with a hammer right now.

Unfortunately, this....

[Palko 4 ever]

Why do this to yourselves? Just stop. Take whatever hope you have left that the Chiefs will draft a QB, place them in front of you, and then smash them with a hammer right now.

Because we're gluttons for punishment, why else would we be Chiefs fans?

[pugsnotdrugs19]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-8evxif4FiI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Here is every snap from the Oklahoma game where Mahomes broke the single game passing record. He has his off plays for sure, but he's clearly a guy who can improvise and extend plays, and make chicken salad out of chicken shit at times. Sprinkles in some well anticipated throws too. He keeps his eyes downfield at all times, and routinely finds someone open in places that most QBs wouldn't even be looking.

I don't see how this kid could be anything but special with some good coaching.

[SAGA45]

I worry about that offense he's in but he has some obvious arm talent. Gets away with some bad mechanics at times because of his arm. Has some touch and can improvise. Wouldn't surprise me if he peaked the Chiefs interests.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Wow, there is a play in the video at around 11:42 where he actually tucks the ball in to run, and ends up stepping back at the LOS and throwing a TD.

A lot of his down field throws seemed to sail over the receivers, FWIW. Probably better to overthrow than underthrow, but it showed up nonetheless.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2H-Wu-QWVZc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Here is his game vs. Baylor at Jerry's World. Good stuff in here too. Its clear that blitzing Mahomes often comes at a price. Has a habit of throwing off his back foot a bit too much perhaps. Deep ball much better and more consistent here.

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

If I were to draft a QB I'd be looking for one that can see downfield and pick out an open receiver like Aaron Rodgers or Big Ben. And downfield accuracy is important. That is the problem with smith he can't look downfield. He panicks too quickly. He has to take the designated playcall or else. I would think a scout with any brains could find one of those !

After watching GoChiefs gifs of the loss to Pitt it just makes me sick. Tyreek wide open sprinting downfield and Smith checking down. There were at least 6 wide open BIG plays he missed.

[RippedmyFlesh]

I honestly think unless he starts shooting up draft boards, he can be had in the 2nd round. Maybe a trade up, but he could definitely be there and allow us to take another need in the first such as ILB.

If he is considered a 2nd then take him with our 1st why fuck around? Our pick is so low in the 1st that it is not a reach really. You can get a ilb without burning a 1st on one. But overall I am as pumped about him as you are thanks for the info.

[farmerchief]

If Dorsey thinks he's worth a shot with a high pick, I'm all in. I figure he knows more about him than me!

[pugsnotdrugs19]

If I were to draft a QB I'd be looking for one that can see downfield and pick out an open receiver like Aaron Rodgers or Big Ben. And downfield accuracy is important. That is the problem with smith he can't look downfield. He panicks too quickly. He has to take the designated playcall or else. I would think a scout with any brains could find one of those !

After watching GoChiefs gifs of the loss to Pitt it just makes me sick. Tyreek wide open sprinting downfield and Smith checking down. There were at least 6 wide open BIG plays he missed.

That's what has made me fall for Mahomes. He consistently extends the play, keeps his eyes up and makes tremendous throws to receivers, sometimes in places you would never expect.

[kcxiv]

Why do this to yourselves? Just stop. Take whatever hope you have left that the Chiefs will draft a QB, place them in front of you, and then smash them with a hammer right now.
kind of like the Chiefs in the play offs, you hope for the win, but deep down, you just know they will fuck it up. Then when the time comes and its all said and done, guess what? the Chiefs actually did fuck ti up.

[PHOG]

That's what has made me fall for Mahomes. He consistently extends the play, keeps his eyes up and makes tremendous throws to receivers, sometimes in places you would never expect.
Against college players, right?

[CoMoChief]

One of the great things about these highlight videos is that it shows and proves to the internet world just how god damn shitty the rap music is now lmao.

[PHOG]

One of the great things about these highlight videos is that it shows and proves to the internet world just how god damn shitty the rap music is now lmao.

Agreed

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Against college players, right?

Its all relative. Against college players, with college teammates. Makes no difference in that sense.

[Valiant]

I like his passes down field on covered receivers. But hate his pocket he played in and presence.

[Three7s]

Pretty good arm strength, though he does throw his fair share of floaters. I think that's more due to poor mechanics and footing than anything. I don't think I've ever seen a QB who can roll out to either direction and make accurate throws with zip. That's a talent that's unteachable and it would be interesting to see if Reid designs plays utilizing that if the Chiefs were to draft him.

He has good poise in the pocket and knows when to step up, though he did show a habit of backing away from free rushers, which is not good. The videos in this thread are a perfect example of how important footwork is to a QB and that's the thing that really stands out for me about this kid. If that gets fixed, the sky is the limit.

[Hoover]

Sign me up

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Pretty good arm strength, though he does throw his fair share of floaters. I think that's more due to poor mechanics and footing than anything. I don't think I've ever seen a QB who can roll out to either direction and make accurate throws with zip. That's a talent that's unteachable and it would be interesting to see if Reid designs plays utilizing that if the Chiefs were to draft him.

He has good poise in the pocket and knows when to step up, though he did show a habit of backing away from free rushers, which is not good. The videos in this thread are a perfect example of how important footwork is to a QB and that's the thing that really stands out for me about this kid. If that gets fixed, the sky is the limit.

I don't think he's the type that you start day one, at all. Even in this day of the NFL where all rookies drafted high typically do, he has mechanical stuff that needs fixed before you throw him in the fire.

BUT, if he does fix those things and you put him in the lineup year 2, the talent is off the charts and you might have an elite playmaking quarterback.

[Hoover]

I don't think he's the type that you start day one, at all. Even in this day of the NFL where all rookies drafted high typically do, he has mechanical stuff that needs fixed before you throw him in the fire.

BUT, if he does fix those things and you put him in the lineup year 2, the talent is off the charts and you might have an elite playmaking quarterback.

Which is perfect for the situation we find ourselves in. We have Smith. If he goes down we get to play our legit QBOTF. If he doesn't then we get an entire year to get him ready for 2018.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Which is perfect for the situation we find ourselves in. We have Smith. If he goes down we get to play our legit QBOTF. If he doesn't then we get an entire year to get him ready for 2018.

And truthfully, this thread probably shouldn't be centered on just Mahomes as there are a handful of QBs I could see KC drafting and that I would be excited about.

But Mahomes to me is the one who could be elite with the right coaching and system (which I feel KC can provide). Even more so than Watson IMO.

[Willie Lanier]

And truthfully, this thread probably shouldn't be centered on just Mahomes as there are a handful of QBs I could see KC drafting and that I would be excited about.

But Mahomes to me is the one who could be elite with the right coaching and system (which I feel KC can provide). Even more so than Watson IMO.

Yeah I want nothing to do with Watson

[Willie Lanier]

I mean that in regards to draft position

[Nickhead]

you do know the chiefs, if they draft a qb even in round 1, there will probably be the top 7 qb's off the board :D

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Yeah I want nothing to do with Watson

I really don't have much faith in him personally right now. His deep ball floats like a damn balloon.

And it might sound stupid, but watching a video of him power cleaning recently really turned me away. Worse form than you will see at a lot of high schools. Most of that is the strength coach's fault for not correcting it, but things like that typically lead to more injuries.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

WalterFootball has Mahomes mocked to the Bills at pick #10 now. :(

Maybe he isn't going quite as under the radar as we hoped.

[RunKC]

If the Mahomes goes early and we can't move up without selling the farm, one guy I'd look at is Nate Peterman.

Great character and has some real tools. Went into Clemson and beat them with a 5 TD performance

[pugsnotdrugs19]

If the Mahomes goes early and we can't move up without selling the farm, one guy I'd look at is Nate Peterman.

Great character and has some real tools. Went into Clemson and beat them with a 5 TD performance

If they can't get a guy that they really want this year, they may be wise to try to stock up for a move next season with the ridiculous QB class that 2018 holds.

[Nickhead]

I really don't have much faith in him personally right now. His deep ball floats like a damn balloon.

And it might sound stupid, but watching a video of him power cleaning recently really turned me away. Worse form than you will see at a lot of high schools. Most of that is the strength coach's fault for not correcting it, but things like that typically lead to more injuries.

i didn't know window washers had their own training staff. that's fucking cool :D

[pugsnotdrugs19]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Two mfs in the world can make that throw and I&#39;m glad my son is one of them. Truth</p>&mdash; pat mahomes (@PMahomes) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMahomes/status/820807261647994881">January 16, 2017</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Pat Mahomes Sr. on Aaron Rodgers throw last week to Cook. Pretty awesome to think about.

[kccrow]

Can we see your list of grades? I honestly dont get when people say this guy is a this or a that unless you have evaluated the entire draft; and even then it still sounds bogus.

Who the fuck are you again?

Read the draft forum once a year.

[PRIEST]

On the wagon ..����

[Tribal Warfare]

http://www.foxsports.com/college-football/story/texas-tech-patrick-mahomes-pass-from-knees-video-twitter-060316

If anyone questions his arm strength

[pugsnotdrugs19]

http://www.foxsports.com/college-football/story/texas-tech-patrick-mahomes-pass-from-knees-video-twitter-060316

If anyone questions his arm strength

He has some Aaron Rodgers in him. Not saying he will ever be that good, he won't, but he is one of the only prospects you are ever going to find that plays that style of QB and does it well.

[Tribal Warfare]

He has some Aaron Rodgers in him. Not saying he will ever be that good, he won't, but he is one of the only prospects you are ever going to find that plays that style of QB and does it well.

There's so much raw potential, if he's put in a good situation to succeed which includes coaching and talent at key positions. He could run that system very well.

[Valiant]

WalterFootball has Mahomes mocked to the Bills at pick #10 now. :(

Maybe he isn't going quite as under the radar as we hoped.

Unless a QB's assaulted a woman, none of them are going under the radar. Too many teams need qbs.

[Valiant]

There's so much raw potential, if he's put in a good situation to succeed which includes coaching and talent at key positions. He could run that system very well.

I agree. But I have no faith in the Chiefs to develop him in that position. I still hope it happens. I am guessing the Pats move up to get him or the donks.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Don't think the Pats would do it, pretty much every QB they've played with since Brady has been a pocket passer. But you're probably right, we likely won't get him and I'll be sick over it.

[DRM08]

WalterFootball has Mahomes mocked to the Bills at pick #10 now. :(

Maybe he isn't going quite as under the radar as we hoped.

Well he did go #10. :D

[carcosa]

Good thread.

[The Franchise]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be fucking LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.

QUOTED.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Well he did go #10. :D

Great find, I remembered this but didn't want to dig it up... Lol

I can't believe that it happened. Posted the day after the playoff loss, and it freaking happened.

[staylor26]

Great find, I remembered this but didn't want to dig it up... Lol

I can't believe that it happened. Posted the day after the playoff loss, and it freaking happened.

That's destiny my friend :D

[DRM08]

Great find, I remembered this but didn't want to dig it up... Lol

I can't believe that it happened. Posted the day after the playoff loss, and it freaking happened.

Y'all were interested in his tape for good reason, but I think your coaches and management fell in love with his personality and intelligence. Mike Greenberg at ESPN and Dan Patrick both said you can't spend 5 minutes with this kid and dislike him. He has a billion dollar personality, one of those people that lights up a room. I think the Chiefs fans will love him and so will the players on the team. This is no Jay Cutler type of personality.

[Red Dawg]

I'm all in for a young QB. This one will do fine.

I was all in. Still can't believe it happened.

[Otter]

Still hasn't quiet sunk in that not only did the Chiefs draft a 1st round QB but it's the exact guy I was hoping they would pick if they actually did pick a 1st round QB.

[KChiefs1]

24 Hours ... With Patrick Mahomes


24 hours with Patrick Mahomes

The MMQB spent 24 hours with quarterback prospect Patrick Mahomes as he prepares for his pro day.

24 hours with Patrick Mahomes

The MMQB spent 24 hours with quarterback prospect Patrick Mahomes as he prepares for his pro day.

The MMQB continues a series of inside-inside, multimedia football stories for the 2017 season with a view into the life of top quarterback prospect Patrick Mahomes in advance of the most important audition of his career: Texas Tech’s pro day. In the series, we’ll spend a full day with an important person in the football world. We’ll have players, coaches and other figures integral to how the game is played and consumed. Give us feedback—and ideas for future 24 Hours subjects—at talkback@themmqb.com.

The lead-up to a prospect’s pro day audition is stressful enough. But for Mahomes, just 21 years old and one of the most intriguing players in the 2017 draft class, there’s even more pressure. This draft class of quarterbacks does not include a surefire franchise player; each of top prospects must take full advantage of this on-campus test and use it as a statement that he should be the top passer chosen on April 27. With a sturdy frame (6' 3", 225 pounds), pro athlete pedigree (his father, Pat Mahomes, pitched in the majors for 11 seasons), big arm and natural charisma, Mahomes is a legitimate first-round candidate. Says one AFC personnel man: “No doubt he has all the traits you’re looking for. He may be a project, but you can see him having tremendous upside, perhaps more than any of the guys in his class.”

On March 31, representatives from 28 teams traveled to Lubbock, Texas, to watch Mahomes perform a 68-throw script. The MMQB’s Emily Kaplan followed Mahomes for a 24-hour period before his pro day, a peek into the preparations of a top quarterback prospect.

* * *

Lubbock, Texas
Wednesday, March 29
3:01 p.m.

Mahomes stands alone on the Texas Tech practice field, clad in gray cleats, black Lululemon sweat pants and a long-sleeve, navy blue shirt from his stint as a counselor at the Manning Passing Academy. In the plains of Northwest Texas—85 percent sky, 15 percent grassland, as locals say—spring is usually warm, dry and windy. The wind is here, but it’s also 40 degrees with a steady mist as Mahomes begins seven minutes of dynamic stretching: a jog to the 20-yard line, knee hugs and striders.

Mahomes spent the last hour with an NFL quarterback coach. So much of the NFL draft process is cloak and dagger; the coach asks not to be identified, even though his presence could mean little more than due diligence. He’ll be granted anonymity, though others aren’t as lucky. A week earlier, details of Mahomes working out for the Saints leaked after Sean Payton was spotted in downtown Lubbock (it didn’t help that he posed for a handful of photos).

Since the combine, Mahomes has scheduled a total of 18 private workouts or official visits from teams. Today’s interview began “in the classroom”—draft parlance for testing a player’s X’s and O’s acumen. The coach calls up Texas Tech footage and asks Mahomes to walk him through the play call, his protections and rationalize his decisions. The coach then draws three plays from his NFL playbook and asks Mahomes to recite them back.

* * *

3:05 p.m.

The NFL quarterback coach joins Mahomes on the field. He’s not going to put Mahomes through a full workout, but he does want to see him throw. Because the coach is here solo, he asks the Texas Tech video department to film the session. There is one camera at field level and another on a crane. The coach gives instructions to the cameramen: “If you could get the angle mostly of him, but also the target, that would be great.” Within an hour, the footage will be emailed directly to that team’s headquarters for the rest of the organization to analyze.

* * *

3:07 p.m.

“Hey, can somebody get Jared?” Mahomes shouts. Jared Kaster is a former Texas Tech center who overlapped with Mahomes for two seasons. Now he’s an offensive quality control coach at Texas Tech, but he’ll snap balls to Mahomes for this session and at the pro day. One of the biggest unknowns with Mahomes, and most college quarterbacks who played almost exclusively from the shotgun (more than 95 percent of the time for Mahomes), is his ability to take snaps from under center.

Photo: John DePetro/The MMQB
After working almost exclusively out of the shotgun in college, Mahomes has to prove to NFL evaluators that he can take snaps from under center.

Though Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury made Mahomes take snaps from under center every practice, the quarterback rarely did it aside from short-yardage situations in games. And during the draft process, Mahomes has a significant disadvantage to overcome. On Oct. 22, in the Red Raiders’ 66-59 loss to Oklahoma, Mahomes broke his left wrist in the first half. (He would ultimately attempt 88 throws in that game, amassing 734 yards and five touchdowns, as well as an NCAA single-game record 819 yards of total offense.) He didn’t miss any time last season due to the injury, but he underwent surgery in December. Many around Lubbock believed the injury would force Mahomes to return to school for his senior year.
Even though it’s his non-throwing hand, the injury is significant: When taking snaps under center, the left hand stabilizes the ball. He had a cast for a month and didn’t get the screws out until mid-January. He couldn’t throw the football much during that span. Texas Tech scheduled its pro day as late as possible just in case Mahomes needed the extra time to heal. “In the end, though, we probably didn’t have to push it back,” says Mahomes, in his thick Texas drawl, as he shows off a gnarly five-inch scar stretching from his wrist to knuckles. “My wrist healed much faster than I thought, and once [I got the screws out] I felt like I could throw just fine. Maybe it put me behind a little bit, but I’m 100 percent now.”

• 24 HOURS WITH ADAM SCHEFTER: We went behind the scenes with the NFL’s top news-breaker for the whirlwind first day of 2017 free agency.

* * *

3:30 p.m.

The NFL quarterback coach stands next to Mahomes during the session. He consults a white, 5.5-by-8.5-inch notebook and calls out the type of throw he’d like Mahomes to make. Throw after throw.

“Yes sir,’’ Mahomes says after each request.

For his pro day, Mahomes’ arsenal is limited: two wideouts, a running back, a fullback and a converted tight end (who is a former linebacker). One scout in attendance says he’d be shocked if any of the players are more than undrafted free agents. So Mahomes’ agents have flown in a professional route-runner. Kenny Bell is a 37-years-old from Los Angeles, a vegetarian who presses his own cashew milk, a wiry 5' 9" former Hofstra wideout, and a man who has absorbed 75,000 hits over his career—though none in an NFL game. Bell graduated college in 2002 and when his NFL career didn’t take off, he pivoted. For the last decade, he’s been employed by EA Sports, using his body for motion capture for Madden video games. He has also worked as a stunt double on “Friday Night Lights,” “The Comeback,” and Nike commercials. But for $250 and accommodations, he’s a wideout for Mahomes this week. Bell won’t run full routes (to save his legs for pro day) but he will shag balls during this 25-throw session.

* * *

3:40 p.m.

The Red Raiders are in the middle of spring ball, and Mahomes’ former teammates are scurrying around the football building. One of them, freshman defensive lineman Tyler Carr, comes outside to watch Mahomes. An early enrollee, Carr arrived on campus nine weeks ago. He stands in awe of the workout. “This is so cool,” he mutters to himself. A few teammates come out to join him.

“Who’s out there?” one asks.

“It’s Patrick, working out for the [actual name of anonymous NFL team]!” Carr announces, his voice full of earnest giddiness.

* * *

3:55 p.m.

Mahomes walks inside and immediately shimmies off his sweatpants (he’s wearing shorts underneath). “Man it got hot out there,” he says.

Mahomes says goodbye to the quarterback coach—“I appreciate you taking the time, sir,” he says—then stands in the lobby of the football building. He’s fixated on a television airing the Texas Tech baseball game. The Red Raiders are the No. 3 team in the country and Mahomes was on the roster until his sophomore season. His father (Pat Mahomes Sr.) and godfather (LaTroy Hawkins) pitched in the major leagues for a combined 32 seasons. Mahomes clocked a 95-mph fastball in high school but chose to pursue football more seriously in college. “My dad played football in high school, he was all-state, but he never really loved it,” Mahomes says. “But for me, I didn’t know what love was until I discovered football.” Though he juggled both sports as a freshman, when Mahomes got the chance to compete for the starting quarterback job he pressed pause on baseball. “It was the first time I ever quit anything in my life,” he says. “And just being a competitor, I can’t explain how hard that was.”

* * *

4:17 p.m.

Kingsbury comes by. “I watched you a little out there,” he says. “You were really slinging it.”

“I was throwing it good today, real good,” Mahomes says.

Kingsbury begins walking away. “Hey,” Mahomes shouts after him. “You have meetings?”

“Yeah,” Kingsbury says. “But I got you later.”

Photo: John DePetro/The MMQB
Kingsbury and Mahomes were inseparable over the last three years. The coach trusted his quarterback so much that he let Mahomes change any play at the line of scrimmage, a rarity in Kingsbury’s system. The dynamics have shifted now that they’re no longer coach and pupil, and today Kingsbury doesn’t have time to hang out. Even though Mahomes threw for 5,052 yards and 41 touchdowns last season, Texas Tech finished a disappointing 5-7. Through spring ball, Kingsbury makes everyone in the football building—players and coaches—put masking tape over the double-T emblem because, according to the coach, their poor play in 2016 meant they “haven’t earned anything.” (Mahomes is allowed to wear his Texas Tech gear, unmasked).
Mahomes looks at himself in the reflection of a glass display in the lobby. “Hey,” he says, to two nearby staffers. “How’s my hair? Should I get a haircut?” He pats down on his curly locks. He stares at his reflection for a good 30 seconds then tells Bell, “O.K., let’s go get something to eat.”

• PATRICK MAHOMES IS THE DRAFT’S RORSCHACH TEST: Every team will see something different in the draft’s most intriguing QB prospect.

* * *

6:01 p.m.

Mahomes and Bell arrive at one of the quarterback’s favorite haunts, the Aspen Creek Grill. In the past 71 minutes, Mahomes has been interrupted three times for selfies. He downs most of his Pow Wow shrimp appetizer, steak tacos and three refills of ice water. (Mahomes says he’s not really concerned about his weight. It’s usual for prospects to put on a few pounds between their combine weigh-in and pro day, but Mahomes has fluctuated only a pound or two since February). During lulls in the conversation, Mahomes’ gaze moves to a TV airing SportsCenter, or he takes out his phone and checks his Snapchat. Mahomes often acts like a typical 21-year-old. He is most animated when he shares stories about days of relative anonymity: “Oh, this is one of my favorites,” he says, eyes widening. “As a freshman, the athletes came to campus early, like the summer before fall semester. We’d crash campus orientations and play dodgeball, and crush kids there, or basketball. In one game I was playing with one of the Tech basketball players, Zach Smith. He’s like 6' 8". I was on this fast break, and I put an alley-oop off the glass. This kid had some glasses on—he might have played basketball in high school or something but he wasn’t that good—and jumped to catch it, and Zach Smith caught it on top of this dude’s head! Then dunked on him so hard, it broke his glasses! They wouldn’t let us go to freshman orientations after that.”

Most of Mahomes vices, now banned as he protects his body for the NFL, are equally G-rated.

“Parking is so hard on campus, I used to rollerblade to class,” he says, wistfully.

When the waitress, who at least feigned ignorance when she first came to the table, brings over the check, she only addresses Mahomes: “It was reaallly nice to meet you.”

“Yeah you too,” Mahomes mumbles, taken aback by her sudden enthusiasm.

* * *

6:18 p.m.

Mahomes is still on the lease for his off-campus house, but he’s staying at a hotel this week. It’s easier that way; his former roommates still live at the house and there’s always commotion. Technically, this is a business trip.

In the hotel lobby, Chris Cabott, one of Mahomes’ agents, pulls out his laptop. In addition to handling his football contract, Cabott and his partner, longtime NFL agent Leigh Steinberg, are also overseeing Mahomes’ marketing. Mahomes yawns and rests his head on the table. “I’m sleepy,” he says.

“We’ll make sure you get a full night of sleep tonight,” Cabott says. (Bell is here as well. He’ll shadow Mahomes as long as they are together, in an effort to forge chemistry).

The agent pulls up a contract on his computer and Mahomes scoots next to the screen. Cabott explains a few lines regarding a deal for signing memorabilia: “This deal would take you through April 2019, so essentially it would take you through your rookie year, your second year. You’d have to do four signings a year. All of this….”

Mahomes interrupts. “Would I get that for every item I do sign?”

“Yeah every item you do sign,” Cabbott says. “I mean, it’s already very generous. That’s double what most people have. I mean, like starting NFL quarterbacks that’s double what they have. It’s a killer deal. I’m trying to get a signing bonus on top of this, because I love you.”

Mahomes smirks. “It’s a good time to be Patrick Mahomes,” Cabbott continues. “O.K. for this, if you go to one of these five markets, this would be the number you’d look at. If you win offensive rookie of the year, if you get to the Super Bowl, you could get up to this number…”

The important business discussion goes largely unnoticed in the lobby of the extended stay hotel; a family of four checks in a few feet away and is being instructed that breakfast will be from 6:30 to 9:30, and Wifi is free.

* * *

6:39 p.m.

Mahomes’ phone rings. “Unknown Number.” He picks up. It’s an NFL quarterbacks coach for a team that hasn’t shown much interest during the draft process. The conversation lasts two minutes. From Mahomes’ end, this is what it sounds like. “Hello… Yes sir. How are you doing? … I’m good to talk to you right now … Yes sir … It’s on Friday, sir … [slight chuckle] … Yes sir … Exactly. Just trying to get it perfect for the pro day … Everyone else will run and do all of that by 9, hopefully by 11 … Yes sir … I’ve been in Lubbock the last week … Yes sir … I feel like I’ve been getting better every day … Yes sir … Yes sir … O.K., thank you.” When Mahomes hangs up, it feels like a pretty pointless call. A tedious aspect about draft process: You always have to be on. Mahomes will get at least three of these calls a week. Sometimes a coach or personnel man wants to talk for an hour, other times it’s as mundane as this call. “It’s kind of weird because my phone is always ringing with area codes around the country, but I feel like they’re just testing me to see how I react,” Mahomes says. “Do I pick up? What am I doing? What’s my mood like? Am I willing to talk football with them?”

* * *

7:12 p.m.

Mahomes has decided he does, indeed, want a haircut. Earlier in the day, he sent a text to make it happen. His barber, Fabian, said he’d stay after close if Mahomes wanted to come in. The barbershop, Garza’s, is an institution, especially for Red Raider athletes. It’s no frills; red walls, white tile floor, a vending machine that looks like it was installed in 1975, and solid $11 haircuts. Mahomes hops in the chair and doesn’t give instructions, just the usual. When it’s Bell’s turn (and then Cabott’s) Mahomes takes a seat and cranes his head to the mounted television, airing NFL Network. The analysts give highlights of Miami’s pro day, featuring fellow quarterback Brad Kaaya, and Mahomes is half-interested.

• WHERE SHOULD THE DRAFT QBS GO?: Andy Benoit on the best landing spots for Mahomes and the draft’s top six passers.

* * *

Photo: Emily Kaplan/The MMQB
​8:01 p.m.
On TV, NFL Network’s Mike Mayock, the draft expert of draft experts, is previewing Texas Tech’s pro day. Mahomes perks up. Mayock: “He runs around like he thinks he’s Johnny Manziel.” To this, Mahomes chuckles like a little kid. “Come on,” he says. “That’s a funny line.”

Mayock finishes the segment saying, “Is he disciplined to play in a true NFL system?” Mahomes barely reacts. Fabian the barber takes offense: “We’ll show them!”

* * *

8:45 p.m.

Mahomes drives back to his hotel. He plans on watching the Spurs-Warriors game. Tomorrow (the final day before his pro day) is going to be big, but not as big as it could have been: At one point, Mahomes had three dinners with three NFL teams scheduled. He had a hard time wrapping his head around the logistics. “I mean I’d have to eat at each one, right? Because I don’t want to be rude… I literally don’t think I could eat three meals in a row.” Plans change; two teams nixed dinners in favor of meetings or a later team visit; Mahomes is relieved to only have to eat once.

* * *

Just before midnight

The Warriors win 110-98, and Mahomes falls asleep right after the game—well, not before taunting a few of his friends who are Spurs fans on Snapchat.

• RANKING FOUR YEARS OF RB PROSPECTS: How, in one NFL team’s view, Fournette, Cook, Mixon and McCaffrey stack up against Elliott, Gurley, Gordon and the rest

* * *

Thursday, March 30
8:49 a.m.

Mahomes’ alarm is set for 8:50 a.m. but before it can go off, he gets a call from Mike Sheppard. The longtime NFL assistant coach has been Mahomes’ quarterback tutor throughout the draft process. Sheppard arrived in Lubbock last night. The plan today is to make sure the quarterback is as comfortable as possible with the pro day. The 68-throw session was choreographed by Cabott, Kingsbury, Mahomes and Sheppard. They drew up a draft two weeks ago and have tweaked it just about every day since. He’ll do most of his work from the 40-yard line, eight throws in the end zone, then the finale: a Hail Mary.

“That’s definitely not something you’d typically see at a pro day,” says Sheppard who, by virtue of coaching in the NFL for 20 years, has a hard time estimating how many pro days he’s attended. (He settles on an over/under of 100.) “But Patrick has such unique arm talent, we wanted to show it off.” Initially, Kingsbury suggested Mahomes stand at the 50-yard line, throw the ball onto the double T emblems on the hill about 20 yards from the far end zone, then walk off the field in silence. Mic drop. The group settled on something a bit more conservative: 78 yards, against the wind.

The reason evaluators will come to see Mahomes in person is that it’s hard to gauge velocity on film. Meanwhile the two things college spread quarterbacks must prove to NFL teams is that they can handle the verbiage of an NFL system, and the footwork required working under center. While the verbiage is assessed in classroom sessions, the script is carefully designed to demonstrate how well Mahomes is mastering the footwork of the three-, five- and seven-step drops he’ll need to do in an NFL offense, while still making all of the “wow” throws he completed at Texas Tech. Evaluators say that Mahomes’ arm strength is so impressive, and he has a knack for escaping pressure, he sometimes relied on pure talent over mechanics in college. “Here’s why he gets the gunslinger label,” says an NFL evaluator. “He’ll see the check down, but he’ll be from the right hashmark and decide to just haul it 50 yards down the left sideline for a touchdown… because he can. You can’t get away with that stuff in the NFL though.”

Mastering the three-, five- and seven-step drops are imperative. At first, Sheppard says, Mahomes took a slight extra step in his left step because he was used to the shotgun. The quarterback whacked that habit in about two weeks. The biggest issue, Sheppard explains, is rhythm throws—separating the drop from the throw. Sometimes Mahomes is so focused on the new drops, he’s not driving the ball as well as he can. While Mahomes was used to getting the ball and just going, now he has to make decisions while he gets the ball, and because of that, motor skills tend to slow down.

* * *

9:32 a.m.

Mahomes and Sheppard meet at a diner. The quarterback puts in his order—apple juice and water, bacon, scrambled eggs, toast and fruit—then gets quizzed by his coach. “How did it go yesterday?” Sheppard asks.

“Pretty good,” Mahomes says. “We were in the classroom for like an hour, hour-and-a-half. He [the anonymous NFL coach] drew up three plays for me and I did pretty well with that.”

“Did he ask you to call the plays?” Sheppard asks.

“Just one, and then he asked me to redraw them on the board.”

“Has anybody given you that 15-17 word huddle test we talked about yet?” Sheppard asks. (The other biggest jump for quarterbacks from a spread system is the ability to memorize and recite long play calls in the huddle.)

“No,” Mahomes says. “Well actually, one team did. The [anonymous team] asked me to do it when I met with them.”

In college, mostly all of Mahomes’ communication was non-verbal. Kingsbury would relay the play from the sideline with a bevy of hand signals, and Mahomes would signal them to his receivers. He would tell his running back the play, and then his line the play. In the NFL, Mahomes will get the play from his helmet speaker and then transfer it to his team. Mahomes can become defensive when this subject is broached. “It’s people assuming I’m not capable of doing it because I haven’t done it before,” he says. “That’s underestimating how smart I am or how much I love this game and am willing to learn.”

* * *

9:50 a.m.

Just as Mahomes bites into his first piece of toast, a woman taps him on the shoulder. “Would you mind taking a photo with my daughter?” she asks.

Mahomes nods as he finishes chewing and stands up and smiles for a photo.

He’s pretty quiet at breakfast. In 24 hours, he’ll be warming up for his throwing session. It feels like those around him are wondering if he might show signs of nerves, but he never flinches. He scrolls through Twitter and sees that, 400 miles away, Myles Garrett just re-ran his 40 at the Texas A&M pro day. Mahomes watches the video on his phone. “That kid is just a freak,” he says.

* * *

10:01 a.m.

The waitress comes by to announce that the bill has already been taken care of—by the woman who asked Mahomes to take a photo with her daughter. Just then the woman emerges and hands Mahomes a gift card to the restaurant. “I … I just wanted to give you this,” she stammers, then walks out before Mahomes has a chance to say thank you.

“Well, now that I’m not a college athlete anymore I guess I can accept this,” he says, stuffing the card in his pocket.

* * *

Photo: John DePetro/The MMQB
​11:31 a.m.
Sheppard and Mahomes enter Jones AT&T Stadium. It’s 75 degrees and sunny, with a slight breeze. Sheppard knows there’s always a wind factor in this stadium. In 1989 (six years before Mahomes was born) Sheppard was the head coach at New Mexico and his team played here. “I’ve been wondering how the wind will be tomorrow,” Sheppard says. “But I know he’ll have to make throws with the wind and against it tomorrow, because that’s what the NFL guys want to see.”

* * *

11:53 a.m.

Mahomes, again, is wearing Lululemon sweatpants (now gray) and a t-shirt. He carries a jug of water. Sheppard doesn’t want Mahomes to throw today at all, to preserve his arm. He’ll barely even touch a football. This is a walk-through to work out all the kinks. Gathered on the field are the six targets Mahomes will be throwing to tomorrow, including Bell.

Before they begin, Mahomes and Sheppard go over the script. “O.K., there’s two changes in the formation on the third segment,” Mahomes says, referring to throws Nos. 36 and 37 on the script. “I think these two need to switch. If you were in that formation, you wouldn’t fake going this way, come out naked right, you know what I mean?”

The script is supposed to highlight that Mahomes can make all of the throws an NFL quarterback is asked to make. These are plays where he will need to be on the move.

“Alright, let’s go over this,” Cabott says, pulling out his laptop and kneeling in a corner of the sideline where shadows protect the glare. “Come into my office.”

Cabott, Mahomes and Sheppard all kneel over the laptop.

Mahomes: “I’m going this [right] way first. The comeback, I’m faking this way, naked left… I’m just going to switch these two.”

Sheppard: “O.K., that actually makes sense.”

Mahomes: “I think in my head, I thought of it that way.”

Sheppard: “Well, here’s what I’m asking. Before we were talking, you were going to throw the overs on both of the nakeds.”

Mahomes: “Yeah, I’m throwing two different nakeds but this is the other one right here.” [He points to play No. 42].

Sheppard: “So you got two overs? And you want to throw one of the comebacks?”

Mahomes: “Yeah. Let me think. If I’m throwing the comeback to the left, then I’m going to fake right. That’s what I want to do.”

And so it is decided. Play No. 36 will be a fake right, naked left comeback route. Play No. 37 will be a fake right, naked left over route and thrown to the tight end. In this order, it’s more accurate to what NFL teams would do. (Later, Mayock—who attends the pro day—will compliment Mahomes on the 20-yard comeback. “A lot of quarterbacks don’t like to make those throws because they’re arm throws,” he says. “I thought they were outstanding.”)

Cabott will make the changes on the master document and update all of the scripts. But now, it’s time to “throw.”

* * *

12:10 p.m.

“Alright gentlemen,” Sheppard announces to the group. “The goal of today is to be as comfortable as possible. We have the field as long as we want. We don’t have anywhere to be. So we can stay as long as we need to get it right.”

“Let’s see what this looks like!” Mahomes says.

Photo: John DePetro/The MMQB
The quarterback gets in formation. “Set, hut!” He goes through the motion of stepping back and throwing the ball. And he keeps going.
After play No. 30, a five-step drop and corner route, Sheppard yells: “Good timing, Patrick!” Later, he’ll yell “good throw!” It seems comical with no ball in sight.

* * *

12:37 p.m.

Mahomes is hands-on with the receivers. He’ll stop on several occasions to give instructions. “Hey Kenny,” he says. “A little less pace on that one. Don’t be as fast. Remember, I’m play action so give me a little bit of time.”

“You got it,” Bell says.

When it comes time for the Hail Mary, Sheppard sticks his finger up to survey the wind.

“Hail Mary with the wind, for sure,” Mahomes says.

They run through the script one more time.

• JORDAN WILLIS IS THE DRAFT’S STEADIEST RISER: Why the unassuming edge rusher from Kansas State is storming up draft boards.

* * *

1:22 p.m.

Mahomes walks back into the football building. Kingsbury is the hallway. “How’d it go out there?” the coach asks.

“Good,” Mahomes says. “We got better, cleaned everything up. I feel good about it. Real good about it.”

“I’m excited,” Kingsbury said.

“No drops today,” Mahomes deadpans.

* * *

1:49 p.m.

Once again, Cabott, Mahomes and Sheppard huddle over the laptop—this time at a high-top table overlooking the weight room—and fine-tune their last minute changes. Mahomes will then go back to the offices and get the new printouts and have them laminated.

“I think we’re good,” Mahomes says when he returns. “Everything is set.”

Mahomes has claimed, on several occasions, that he’s not nervous about his pro day. It might be a function of his upbringing. The two most important male figures in his life were professional athletes; Mahomes has been to every MLB stadium, he’s taken batting practice with Alex Rodriguez and fielded groundballs with Derek Jeter; he’s grown up in locker rooms and is unfazed by big moments. Or perhaps draft season fatigue prevents nerves from revealing themselves.

* * *

2:01 p.m.

Mahomes has a meeting with an NFL head coach at 3 p.m. and at first, he wants to go to his hotel and shower beforehand. He changes his mind, and decides he will get something to eat. And then he changes his mind again. He will just wait here at the football facility until the coach arrives.

“Actually, I think I’m just going to lie on the couch here,” he says. “Rest up.”

* * *

3:00 p.m.

Mahomes welcomes the NFL head coach to Texas Tech. They walk into a private room together.

* * *

Postscript

Mahomes impressed with his 68-throw script. Seahawks GM John Schneider and 49ers GM John Lynch were in attendance, as was Giants coach Ben McAdoo, making his lone appearance at a pro day this year. Mahomes overthrew four balls, but a scout in attendance said his command and timing on several throws—especially on deep, outbreaking routes—“showed me he has made great improvements. The footwork isn’t perfect, but he’s getting there.” In reviewing the tape that night, Cabott and Mahomes see some room for improvement. He was so focused on the footwork, he wasn’t driving the ball as well as he could on some throws.

But there was one he perfected. Even though NFL evaluators were given a copy of the script beforehand, there was awed silence as Mahomes stepped back for his final throw, the Hail Mary. There was no route-runner, but he hauled spiral perfectly into the end zone. Said the scout in attendance: “There’s that swagger, which has always made him the most intriguing prospect.”

Question or comment? Email us at talkback@themmqb.com.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Rasputin]

24 Hours ... With Patrick Mahomes


24 hours with Patrick Mahomes

The MMQB spent 24 hours with quarterback prospect Patrick Mahomes as he prepares for his pro day.

24 hours with Patrick Mahomes

The MMQB spent 24 hours with quarterback prospect Patrick Mahomes as he prepares for his pro day.

The MMQB continues a series of inside-inside, multimedia football stories for the 2017 season with a view into the life of top quarterback prospect Patrick Mahomes in advance of the most important audition of his career: Texas Tech’s pro day. In the series, we’ll spend a full day with an important person in the football world. We’ll have players, coaches and other figures integral to how the game is played and consumed. Give us feedback—and ideas for future 24 Hours subjects—at talkback@themmqb.com.

The lead-up to a prospect’s pro day audition is stressful enough. But for Mahomes, just 21 years old and one of the most intriguing players in the 2017 draft class, there’s even more pressure. This draft class of quarterbacks does not include a surefire franchise player; each of top prospects must take full advantage of this on-campus test and use it as a statement that he should be the top passer chosen on April 27. With a sturdy frame (6' 3", 225 pounds), pro athlete pedigree (his father, Pat Mahomes, pitched in the majors for 11 seasons), big arm and natural charisma, Mahomes is a legitimate first-round candidate. Says one AFC personnel man: “No doubt he has all the traits you’re looking for. He may be a project, but you can see him having tremendous upside, perhaps more than any of the guys in his class.”

On March 31, representatives from 28 teams traveled to Lubbock, Texas, to watch Mahomes perform a 68-throw script. The MMQB’s Emily Kaplan followed Mahomes for a 24-hour period before his pro day, a peek into the preparations of a top quarterback prospect.

* * *

Lubbock, Texas
Wednesday, March 29
3:01 p.m.

Mahomes stands alone on the Texas Tech practice field, clad in gray cleats, black Lululemon sweat pants and a long-sleeve, navy blue shirt from his stint as a counselor at the Manning Passing Academy. In the plains of Northwest Texas—85 percent sky, 15 percent grassland, as locals say—spring is usually warm, dry and windy. The wind is here, but it’s also 40 degrees with a steady mist as Mahomes begins seven minutes of dynamic stretching: a jog to the 20-yard line, knee hugs and striders.

Mahomes spent the last hour with an NFL quarterback coach. So much of the NFL draft process is cloak and dagger; the coach asks not to be identified, even though his presence could mean little more than due diligence. He’ll be granted anonymity, though others aren’t as lucky. A week earlier, details of Mahomes working out for the Saints leaked after Sean Payton was spotted in downtown Lubbock (it didn’t help that he posed for a handful of photos).

Since the combine, Mahomes has scheduled a total of 18 private workouts or official visits from teams. Today’s interview began “in the classroom”—draft parlance for testing a player’s X’s and O’s acumen. The coach calls up Texas Tech footage and asks Mahomes to walk him through the play call, his protections and rationalize his decisions. The coach then draws three plays from his NFL playbook and asks Mahomes to recite them back.

* * *

3:05 p.m.

The NFL quarterback coach joins Mahomes on the field. He’s not going to put Mahomes through a full workout, but he does want to see him throw. Because the coach is here solo, he asks the Texas Tech video department to film the session. There is one camera at field level and another on a crane. The coach gives instructions to the cameramen: “If you could get the angle mostly of him, but also the target, that would be great.” Within an hour, the footage will be emailed directly to that team’s headquarters for the rest of the organization to analyze.

* * *

3:07 p.m.

“Hey, can somebody get Jared?” Mahomes shouts. Jared Kaster is a former Texas Tech center who overlapped with Mahomes for two seasons. Now he’s an offensive quality control coach at Texas Tech, but he’ll snap balls to Mahomes for this session and at the pro day. One of the biggest unknowns with Mahomes, and most college quarterbacks who played almost exclusively from the shotgun (more than 95 percent of the time for Mahomes), is his ability to take snaps from under center.

Photo: John DePetro/The MMQB
After working almost exclusively out of the shotgun in college, Mahomes has to prove to NFL evaluators that he can take snaps from under center.

Though Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury made Mahomes take snaps from under center every practice, the quarterback rarely did it aside from short-yardage situations in games. And during the draft process, Mahomes has a significant disadvantage to overcome. On Oct. 22, in the Red Raiders’ 66-59 loss to Oklahoma, Mahomes broke his left wrist in the first half. (He would ultimately attempt 88 throws in that game, amassing 734 yards and five touchdowns, as well as an NCAA single-game record 819 yards of total offense.) He didn’t miss any time last season due to the injury, but he underwent surgery in December. Many around Lubbock believed the injury would force Mahomes to return to school for his senior year.
Even though it’s his non-throwing hand, the injury is significant: When taking snaps under center, the left hand stabilizes the ball. He had a cast for a month and didn’t get the screws out until mid-January. He couldn’t throw the football much during that span. Texas Tech scheduled its pro day as late as possible just in case Mahomes needed the extra time to heal. “In the end, though, we probably didn’t have to push it back,” says Mahomes, in his thick Texas drawl, as he shows off a gnarly five-inch scar stretching from his wrist to knuckles. “My wrist healed much faster than I thought, and once [I got the screws out] I felt like I could throw just fine. Maybe it put me behind a little bit, but I’m 100 percent now.”

• 24 HOURS WITH ADAM SCHEFTER: We went behind the scenes with the NFL’s top news-breaker for the whirlwind first day of 2017 free agency.

* * *

3:30 p.m.

The NFL quarterback coach stands next to Mahomes during the session. He consults a white, 5.5-by-8.5-inch notebook and calls out the type of throw he’d like Mahomes to make. Throw after throw.

“Yes sir,’’ Mahomes says after each request.

For his pro day, Mahomes’ arsenal is limited: two wideouts, a running back, a fullback and a converted tight end (who is a former linebacker). One scout in attendance says he’d be shocked if any of the players are more than undrafted free agents. So Mahomes’ agents have flown in a professional route-runner. Kenny Bell is a 37-years-old from Los Angeles, a vegetarian who presses his own cashew milk, a wiry 5' 9" former Hofstra wideout, and a man who has absorbed 75,000 hits over his career—though none in an NFL game. Bell graduated college in 2002 and when his NFL career didn’t take off, he pivoted. For the last decade, he’s been employed by EA Sports, using his body for motion capture for Madden video games. He has also worked as a stunt double on “Friday Night Lights,” “The Comeback,” and Nike commercials. But for $250 and accommodations, he’s a wideout for Mahomes this week. Bell won’t run full routes (to save his legs for pro day) but he will shag balls during this 25-throw session.

* * *

3:40 p.m.

The Red Raiders are in the middle of spring ball, and Mahomes’ former teammates are scurrying around the football building. One of them, freshman defensive lineman Tyler Carr, comes outside to watch Mahomes. An early enrollee, Carr arrived on campus nine weeks ago. He stands in awe of the workout. “This is so cool,” he mutters to himself. A few teammates come out to join him.

“Who’s out there?” one asks.

“It’s Patrick, working out for the [actual name of anonymous NFL team]!” Carr announces, his voice full of earnest giddiness.

* * *

3:55 p.m.

Mahomes walks inside and immediately shimmies off his sweatpants (he’s wearing shorts underneath). “Man it got hot out there,” he says.

Mahomes says goodbye to the quarterback coach—“I appreciate you taking the time, sir,” he says—then stands in the lobby of the football building. He’s fixated on a television airing the Texas Tech baseball game. The Red Raiders are the No. 3 team in the country and Mahomes was on the roster until his sophomore season. His father (Pat Mahomes Sr.) and godfather (LaTroy Hawkins) pitched in the major leagues for a combined 32 seasons. Mahomes clocked a 95-mph fastball in high school but chose to pursue football more seriously in college. “My dad played football in high school, he was all-state, but he never really loved it,” Mahomes says. “But for me, I didn’t know what love was until I discovered football.” Though he juggled both sports as a freshman, when Mahomes got the chance to compete for the starting quarterback job he pressed pause on baseball. “It was the first time I ever quit anything in my life,” he says. “And just being a competitor, I can’t explain how hard that was.”

* * *

4:17 p.m.

Kingsbury comes by. “I watched you a little out there,” he says. “You were really slinging it.”

“I was throwing it good today, real good,” Mahomes says.

Kingsbury begins walking away. “Hey,” Mahomes shouts after him. “You have meetings?”

“Yeah,” Kingsbury says. “But I got you later.”

Photo: John DePetro/The MMQB
Kingsbury and Mahomes were inseparable over the last three years. The coach trusted his quarterback so much that he let Mahomes change any play at the line of scrimmage, a rarity in Kingsbury’s system. The dynamics have shifted now that they’re no longer coach and pupil, and today Kingsbury doesn’t have time to hang out. Even though Mahomes threw for 5,052 yards and 41 touchdowns last season, Texas Tech finished a disappointing 5-7. Through spring ball, Kingsbury makes everyone in the football building—players and coaches—put masking tape over the double-T emblem because, according to the coach, their poor play in 2016 meant they “haven’t earned anything.” (Mahomes is allowed to wear his Texas Tech gear, unmasked).
Mahomes looks at himself in the reflection of a glass display in the lobby. “Hey,” he says, to two nearby staffers. “How’s my hair? Should I get a haircut?” He pats down on his curly locks. He stares at his reflection for a good 30 seconds then tells Bell, “O.K., let’s go get something to eat.”

• PATRICK MAHOMES IS THE DRAFT’S RORSCHACH TEST: Every team will see something different in the draft’s most intriguing QB prospect.

* * *

6:01 p.m.

Mahomes and Bell arrive at one of the quarterback’s favorite haunts, the Aspen Creek Grill. In the past 71 minutes, Mahomes has been interrupted three times for selfies. He downs most of his Pow Wow shrimp appetizer, steak tacos and three refills of ice water. (Mahomes says he’s not really concerned about his weight. It’s usual for prospects to put on a few pounds between their combine weigh-in and pro day, but Mahomes has fluctuated only a pound or two since February). During lulls in the conversation, Mahomes’ gaze moves to a TV airing SportsCenter, or he takes out his phone and checks his Snapchat. Mahomes often acts like a typical 21-year-old. He is most animated when he shares stories about days of relative anonymity: “Oh, this is one of my favorites,” he says, eyes widening. “As a freshman, the athletes came to campus early, like the summer before fall semester. We’d crash campus orientations and play dodgeball, and crush kids there, or basketball. In one game I was playing with one of the Tech basketball players, Zach Smith. He’s like 6' 8". I was on this fast break, and I put an alley-oop off the glass. This kid had some glasses on—he might have played basketball in high school or something but he wasn’t that good—and jumped to catch it, and Zach Smith caught it on top of this dude’s head! Then dunked on him so hard, it broke his glasses! They wouldn’t let us go to freshman orientations after that.”

Most of Mahomes vices, now banned as he protects his body for the NFL, are equally G-rated.

“Parking is so hard on campus, I used to rollerblade to class,” he says, wistfully.

When the waitress, who at least feigned ignorance when she first came to the table, brings over the check, she only addresses Mahomes: “It was reaallly nice to meet you.”

“Yeah you too,” Mahomes mumbles, taken aback by her sudden enthusiasm.

* * *

6:18 p.m.

Mahomes is still on the lease for his off-campus house, but he’s staying at a hotel this week. It’s easier that way; his former roommates still live at the house and there’s always commotion. Technically, this is a business trip.

In the hotel lobby, Chris Cabott, one of Mahomes’ agents, pulls out his laptop. In addition to handling his football contract, Cabott and his partner, longtime NFL agent Leigh Steinberg, are also overseeing Mahomes’ marketing. Mahomes yawns and rests his head on the table. “I’m sleepy,” he says.

“We’ll make sure you get a full night of sleep tonight,” Cabott says. (Bell is here as well. He’ll shadow Mahomes as long as they are together, in an effort to forge chemistry).

The agent pulls up a contract on his computer and Mahomes scoots next to the screen. Cabott explains a few lines regarding a deal for signing memorabilia: “This deal would take you through April 2019, so essentially it would take you through your rookie year, your second year. You’d have to do four signings a year. All of this….”

Mahomes interrupts. “Would I get that for every item I do sign?”

“Yeah every item you do sign,” Cabbott says. “I mean, it’s already very generous. That’s double what most people have. I mean, like starting NFL quarterbacks that’s double what they have. It’s a killer deal. I’m trying to get a signing bonus on top of this, because I love you.”

Mahomes smirks. “It’s a good time to be Patrick Mahomes,” Cabbott continues. “O.K. for this, if you go to one of these five markets, this would be the number you’d look at. If you win offensive rookie of the year, if you get to the Super Bowl, you could get up to this number…”

The important business discussion goes largely unnoticed in the lobby of the extended stay hotel; a family of four checks in a few feet away and is being instructed that breakfast will be from 6:30 to 9:30, and Wifi is free.

* * *

6:39 p.m.

Mahomes’ phone rings. “Unknown Number.” He picks up. It’s an NFL quarterbacks coach for a team that hasn’t shown much interest during the draft process. The conversation lasts two minutes. From Mahomes’ end, this is what it sounds like. “Hello… Yes sir. How are you doing? … I’m good to talk to you right now … Yes sir … It’s on Friday, sir … [slight chuckle] … Yes sir … Exactly. Just trying to get it perfect for the pro day … Everyone else will run and do all of that by 9, hopefully by 11 … Yes sir … I’ve been in Lubbock the last week … Yes sir … I feel like I’ve been getting better every day … Yes sir … Yes sir … O.K., thank you.” When Mahomes hangs up, it feels like a pretty pointless call. A tedious aspect about draft process: You always have to be on. Mahomes will get at least three of these calls a week. Sometimes a coach or personnel man wants to talk for an hour, other times it’s as mundane as this call. “It’s kind of weird because my phone is always ringing with area codes around the country, but I feel like they’re just testing me to see how I react,” Mahomes says. “Do I pick up? What am I doing? What’s my mood like? Am I willing to talk football with them?”

* * *

7:12 p.m.

Mahomes has decided he does, indeed, want a haircut. Earlier in the day, he sent a text to make it happen. His barber, Fabian, said he’d stay after close if Mahomes wanted to come in. The barbershop, Garza’s, is an institution, especially for Red Raider athletes. It’s no frills; red walls, white tile floor, a vending machine that looks like it was installed in 1975, and solid $11 haircuts. Mahomes hops in the chair and doesn’t give instructions, just the usual. When it’s Bell’s turn (and then Cabott’s) Mahomes takes a seat and cranes his head to the mounted television, airing NFL Network. The analysts give highlights of Miami’s pro day, featuring fellow quarterback Brad Kaaya, and Mahomes is half-interested.

• WHERE SHOULD THE DRAFT QBS GO?: Andy Benoit on the best landing spots for Mahomes and the draft’s top six passers.

* * *

Photo: Emily Kaplan/The MMQB
​8:01 p.m.
On TV, NFL Network’s Mike Mayock, the draft expert of draft experts, is previewing Texas Tech’s pro day. Mahomes perks up. Mayock: “He runs around like he thinks he’s Johnny Manziel.” To this, Mahomes chuckles like a little kid. “Come on,” he says. “That’s a funny line.”

Mayock finishes the segment saying, “Is he disciplined to play in a true NFL system?” Mahomes barely reacts. Fabian the barber takes offense: “We’ll show them!”

* * *

8:45 p.m.

Mahomes drives back to his hotel. He plans on watching the Spurs-Warriors game. Tomorrow (the final day before his pro day) is going to be big, but not as big as it could have been: At one point, Mahomes had three dinners with three NFL teams scheduled. He had a hard time wrapping his head around the logistics. “I mean I’d have to eat at each one, right? Because I don’t want to be rude… I literally don’t think I could eat three meals in a row.” Plans change; two teams nixed dinners in favor of meetings or a later team visit; Mahomes is relieved to only have to eat once.

* * *

Just before midnight

The Warriors win 110-98, and Mahomes falls asleep right after the game—well, not before taunting a few of his friends who are Spurs fans on Snapchat.

• RANKING FOUR YEARS OF RB PROSPECTS: How, in one NFL team’s view, Fournette, Cook, Mixon and McCaffrey stack up against Elliott, Gurley, Gordon and the rest

* * *

Thursday, March 30
8:49 a.m.

Mahomes’ alarm is set for 8:50 a.m. but before it can go off, he gets a call from Mike Sheppard. The longtime NFL assistant coach has been Mahomes’ quarterback tutor throughout the draft process. Sheppard arrived in Lubbock last night. The plan today is to make sure the quarterback is as comfortable as possible with the pro day. The 68-throw session was choreographed by Cabott, Kingsbury, Mahomes and Sheppard. They drew up a draft two weeks ago and have tweaked it just about every day since. He’ll do most of his work from the 40-yard line, eight throws in the end zone, then the finale: a Hail Mary.

“That’s definitely not something you’d typically see at a pro day,” says Sheppard who, by virtue of coaching in the NFL for 20 years, has a hard time estimating how many pro days he’s attended. (He settles on an over/under of 100.) “But Patrick has such unique arm talent, we wanted to show it off.” Initially, Kingsbury suggested Mahomes stand at the 50-yard line, throw the ball onto the double T emblems on the hill about 20 yards from the far end zone, then walk off the field in silence. Mic drop. The group settled on something a bit more conservative: 78 yards, against the wind.

The reason evaluators will come to see Mahomes in person is that it’s hard to gauge velocity on film. Meanwhile the two things college spread quarterbacks must prove to NFL teams is that they can handle the verbiage of an NFL system, and the footwork required working under center. While the verbiage is assessed in classroom sessions, the script is carefully designed to demonstrate how well Mahomes is mastering the footwork of the three-, five- and seven-step drops he’ll need to do in an NFL offense, while still making all of the “wow” throws he completed at Texas Tech. Evaluators say that Mahomes’ arm strength is so impressive, and he has a knack for escaping pressure, he sometimes relied on pure talent over mechanics in college. “Here’s why he gets the gunslinger label,” says an NFL evaluator. “He’ll see the check down, but he’ll be from the right hashmark and decide to just haul it 50 yards down the left sideline for a touchdown… because he can. You can’t get away with that stuff in the NFL though.”

Mastering the three-, five- and seven-step drops are imperative. At first, Sheppard says, Mahomes took a slight extra step in his left step because he was used to the shotgun. The quarterback whacked that habit in about two weeks. The biggest issue, Sheppard explains, is rhythm throws—separating the drop from the throw. Sometimes Mahomes is so focused on the new drops, he’s not driving the ball as well as he can. While Mahomes was used to getting the ball and just going, now he has to make decisions while he gets the ball, and because of that, motor skills tend to slow down.

* * *

9:32 a.m.

Mahomes and Sheppard meet at a diner. The quarterback puts in his order—apple juice and water, bacon, scrambled eggs, toast and fruit—then gets quizzed by his coach. “How did it go yesterday?” Sheppard asks.

“Pretty good,” Mahomes says. “We were in the classroom for like an hour, hour-and-a-half. He [the anonymous NFL coach] drew up three plays for me and I did pretty well with that.”

“Did he ask you to call the plays?” Sheppard asks.

“Just one, and then he asked me to redraw them on the board.”

“Has anybody given you that 15-17 word huddle test we talked about yet?” Sheppard asks. (The other biggest jump for quarterbacks from a spread system is the ability to memorize and recite long play calls in the huddle.)

“No,” Mahomes says. “Well actually, one team did. The [anonymous team] asked me to do it when I met with them.”

In college, mostly all of Mahomes’ communication was non-verbal. Kingsbury would relay the play from the sideline with a bevy of hand signals, and Mahomes would signal them to his receivers. He would tell his running back the play, and then his line the play. In the NFL, Mahomes will get the play from his helmet speaker and then transfer it to his team. Mahomes can become defensive when this subject is broached. “It’s people assuming I’m not capable of doing it because I haven’t done it before,” he says. “That’s underestimating how smart I am or how much I love this game and am willing to learn.”

* * *

9:50 a.m.

Just as Mahomes bites into his first piece of toast, a woman taps him on the shoulder. “Would you mind taking a photo with my daughter?” she asks.

Mahomes nods as he finishes chewing and stands up and smiles for a photo.

He’s pretty quiet at breakfast. In 24 hours, he’ll be warming up for his throwing session. It feels like those around him are wondering if he might show signs of nerves, but he never flinches. He scrolls through Twitter and sees that, 400 miles away, Myles Garrett just re-ran his 40 at the Texas A&M pro day. Mahomes watches the video on his phone. “That kid is just a freak,” he says.

* * *

10:01 a.m.

The waitress comes by to announce that the bill has already been taken care of—by the woman who asked Mahomes to take a photo with her daughter. Just then the woman emerges and hands Mahomes a gift card to the restaurant. “I … I just wanted to give you this,” she stammers, then walks out before Mahomes has a chance to say thank you.

“Well, now that I’m not a college athlete anymore I guess I can accept this,” he says, stuffing the card in his pocket.

* * *

Photo: John DePetro/The MMQB
​11:31 a.m.
Sheppard and Mahomes enter Jones AT&T Stadium. It’s 75 degrees and sunny, with a slight breeze. Sheppard knows there’s always a wind factor in this stadium. In 1989 (six years before Mahomes was born) Sheppard was the head coach at New Mexico and his team played here. “I’ve been wondering how the wind will be tomorrow,” Sheppard says. “But I know he’ll have to make throws with the wind and against it tomorrow, because that’s what the NFL guys want to see.”

* * *

11:53 a.m.

Mahomes, again, is wearing Lululemon sweatpants (now gray) and a t-shirt. He carries a jug of water. Sheppard doesn’t want Mahomes to throw today at all, to preserve his arm. He’ll barely even touch a football. This is a walk-through to work out all the kinks. Gathered on the field are the six targets Mahomes will be throwing to tomorrow, including Bell.

Before they begin, Mahomes and Sheppard go over the script. “O.K., there’s two changes in the formation on the third segment,” Mahomes says, referring to throws Nos. 36 and 37 on the script. “I think these two need to switch. If you were in that formation, you wouldn’t fake going this way, come out naked right, you know what I mean?”

The script is supposed to highlight that Mahomes can make all of the throws an NFL quarterback is asked to make. These are plays where he will need to be on the move.

“Alright, let’s go over this,” Cabott says, pulling out his laptop and kneeling in a corner of the sideline where shadows protect the glare. “Come into my office.”

Cabott, Mahomes and Sheppard all kneel over the laptop.

Mahomes: “I’m going this [right] way first. The comeback, I’m faking this way, naked left… I’m just going to switch these two.”

Sheppard: “O.K., that actually makes sense.”

Mahomes: “I think in my head, I thought of it that way.”

Sheppard: “Well, here’s what I’m asking. Before we were talking, you were going to throw the overs on both of the nakeds.”

Mahomes: “Yeah, I’m throwing two different nakeds but this is the other one right here.” [He points to play No. 42].

Sheppard: “So you got two overs? And you want to throw one of the comebacks?”

Mahomes: “Yeah. Let me think. If I’m throwing the comeback to the left, then I’m going to fake right. That’s what I want to do.”

And so it is decided. Play No. 36 will be a fake right, naked left comeback route. Play No. 37 will be a fake right, naked left over route and thrown to the tight end. In this order, it’s more accurate to what NFL teams would do. (Later, Mayock—who attends the pro day—will compliment Mahomes on the 20-yard comeback. “A lot of quarterbacks don’t like to make those throws because they’re arm throws,” he says. “I thought they were outstanding.”)

Cabott will make the changes on the master document and update all of the scripts. But now, it’s time to “throw.”

* * *

12:10 p.m.

“Alright gentlemen,” Sheppard announces to the group. “The goal of today is to be as comfortable as possible. We have the field as long as we want. We don’t have anywhere to be. So we can stay as long as we need to get it right.”

“Let’s see what this looks like!” Mahomes says.

Photo: John DePetro/The MMQB
The quarterback gets in formation. “Set, hut!” He goes through the motion of stepping back and throwing the ball. And he keeps going.
After play No. 30, a five-step drop and corner route, Sheppard yells: “Good timing, Patrick!” Later, he’ll yell “good throw!” It seems comical with no ball in sight.

* * *

12:37 p.m.

Mahomes is hands-on with the receivers. He’ll stop on several occasions to give instructions. “Hey Kenny,” he says. “A little less pace on that one. Don’t be as fast. Remember, I’m play action so give me a little bit of time.”

“You got it,” Bell says.

When it comes time for the Hail Mary, Sheppard sticks his finger up to survey the wind.

“Hail Mary with the wind, for sure,” Mahomes says.

They run through the script one more time.

• JORDAN WILLIS IS THE DRAFT’S STEADIEST RISER: Why the unassuming edge rusher from Kansas State is storming up draft boards.

* * *

1:22 p.m.

Mahomes walks back into the football building. Kingsbury is the hallway. “How’d it go out there?” the coach asks.

“Good,” Mahomes says. “We got better, cleaned everything up. I feel good about it. Real good about it.”

“I’m excited,” Kingsbury said.

“No drops today,” Mahomes deadpans.

* * *

1:49 p.m.

Once again, Cabott, Mahomes and Sheppard huddle over the laptop—this time at a high-top table overlooking the weight room—and fine-tune their last minute changes. Mahomes will then go back to the offices and get the new printouts and have them laminated.

“I think we’re good,” Mahomes says when he returns. “Everything is set.”

Mahomes has claimed, on several occasions, that he’s not nervous about his pro day. It might be a function of his upbringing. The two most important male figures in his life were professional athletes; Mahomes has been to every MLB stadium, he’s taken batting practice with Alex Rodriguez and fielded groundballs with Derek Jeter; he’s grown up in locker rooms and is unfazed by big moments. Or perhaps draft season fatigue prevents nerves from revealing themselves.

* * *

2:01 p.m.

Mahomes has a meeting with an NFL head coach at 3 p.m. and at first, he wants to go to his hotel and shower beforehand. He changes his mind, and decides he will get something to eat. And then he changes his mind again. He will just wait here at the football facility until the coach arrives.

“Actually, I think I’m just going to lie on the couch here,” he says. “Rest up.”

* * *

3:00 p.m.

Mahomes welcomes the NFL head coach to Texas Tech. They walk into a private room together.

* * *

Postscript

Mahomes impressed with his 68-throw script. Seahawks GM John Schneider and 49ers GM John Lynch were in attendance, as was Giants coach Ben McAdoo, making his lone appearance at a pro day this year. Mahomes overthrew four balls, but a scout in attendance said his command and timing on several throws—especially on deep, outbreaking routes—“showed me he has made great improvements. The footwork isn’t perfect, but he’s getting there.” In reviewing the tape that night, Cabott and Mahomes see some room for improvement. He was so focused on the footwork, he wasn’t driving the ball as well as he could on some throws.

But there was one he perfected. Even though NFL evaluators were given a copy of the script beforehand, there was awed silence as Mahomes stepped back for his final throw, the Hail Mary. There was no route-runner, but he hauled spiral perfectly into the end zone. Said the scout in attendance: “There’s that swagger, which has always made him the most intriguing prospect.”

Question or comment? Email us at talkback@themmqb.com.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I just had to quote this for Awesomeness not that I read it but looks like full of Awesomeness

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Appreciate the share KChiefs, but ya gotta spoiler that shit. Lol

[Coogs]

tl;dr

Not a chance with this kid. Reading every darn thing I can!

[Skyy God]

<a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/user/tnmountie/media/Thats-Gold-Jerry-Gold-Kenny-Bania-Seinfeld-Quote_zps4b775d39.gif.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa146/tnmountie/Thats-Gold-Jerry-Gold-Kenny-Bania-Seinfeld-Quote_zps4b775d39.gif" border="0" alt=" photo Thats-Gold-Jerry-Gold-Kenny-Bania-Seinfeld-Quote_zps4b775d39.gif"/></a>

I've drank with that guy.

Super nice. Allegedly struck out with the local TV anchor we were with, though.

[KChiefs1]

Appreciate the share KChiefs, but ya gotta spoiler that shit. Lol


Sorry. I got carried away reading it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[saphojunkie]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be fucking LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.

Delightful

[Ming the Merciless]

nice call pugs and the othrs who nailed this

[rydogg58]

Okay. Let's say that we feel that he is top 10 worthy on Dorsey's board and he is still there at 10. I googled draft trade chart and the chart I found gave the numer 10 pick worth 1300 and the 27 worth 680, so we would need 620 points in draft value to move up to 10. That would mean our 1st, 2nd and 3rd would still not be enough. The Bills pick at 10. I'm not sure that they would be willing to pass on a quarterback but maybe they would be willing to take Alex Smith in the trade? I would package Alex Smith and our first to move up for him if Dorsey and Reid think he's the guy. Hand the Reigns to Foles for a year. If we take a step back, we take a step back. It would be so worth it if he pans out. Plus, we still have all the rest of our draft picks. Who knows if the Bills would make that trade, but you never know. Cleveland traded the number 2 away last year instead of drafting Wentz. And the Bills would be getting a starting quarterback to stabilize the position like KC did when they got him. I seriously doubt this would ever happen. But a guy can dream.

Nailed it. For the most part.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

nice call pugs and the othrs who nailed this

Thanks Pawn

[KChiefs1]

Not gonna say much.. just going to drop this video here so you can check this guy out if you hadn't. I hadn't until today, and I really like his raw ability.



#1 thing that sticks out to me is he can really evade rushers and chuck it on the run. Amazing raw arm talent.



As long as Reid is calling plays, we need a QB who can make up for his conservative ways. Save your comments about how the Chiefs will never take a QB, because that's bullsh*t. If they find the right one, they will. I think this could be him.



<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CdlpfRRLGHY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Major props.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[KChiefs1]

If the organization believes he's their guy then they'll trade up for him.


Truth


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[KChiefs1]

Did some more digging on Mahomes.... get this.



Due to his ability to evade rushers and throw on the run both directions, some are saying he has a ceiling that compares to Aaron Rodgers. But, with this unorthodox style, comes a very low floor.



I say let him sit for a year maybe.


You were all over him.

Heard the Chiefs were on him from the 3rd game of the season & on.

Did you have some inside info?



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rtmike]

Okay. Let's say that we feel that he is top 10 worthy on Dorsey's board and he is still there at 10. I googled draft trade chart and the chart I found gave the numer 10 pick worth 1300 and the 27 worth 680, so we would need 620 points in draft value to move up to 10. That would mean our 1st, 2nd and 3rd would still not be enough. The Bills pick at 10. I'm not sure that they would be willing to pass on a quarterback but maybe they would be willing to take Alex Smith in the trade? I would package Alex Smith and our first to move up for him if Dorsey and Reid think he's the guy. Hand the Reigns to Foles for a year. If we take a step back, we take a step back. It would be so worth it if he pans out. Plus, we still have all the rest of our draft picks. Who knows if the Bills would make that trade, but you never know. Cleveland traded the number 2 away last year instead of drafting Wentz. And the Bills would be getting a starting quarterback to stabilize the position like KC did when they got him. I seriously doubt this would ever happen. But a guy can dream.



Nice call!

[pugsnotdrugs19]

You were all over him.

Heard the Chiefs were on him from the 3rd game of the season & on.

Did you have some inside info?



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Didn't have any inside info. Well, not until about 10 days before the draft when I was told they were looking to trade up for Mahomes or McCaffrey.

[JDKinman]

Y'all were interested in his tape for good reason, but I think your coaches and management fell in love with his personality and intelligence. Mike Greenberg at ESPN and Dan Patrick both said you can't spend 5 minutes with this kid and dislike him. He has a billion dollar personality, one of those people that lights up a room. I think the Chiefs fans will love him and so will the players on the team. This is no Jay Cutler type of personality.

Y'all can take this as Gospel from those of us who've been around the young man. As incredible as it sounds, there is simply nothing not to like.

--JD

[milkman]

Y'all can take this as Gospel from those of us who've been around the young man. As incredible as it sounds, there is simply nothing not to like.

--JD

I don't like his hair.

[Pasta Little Brioni]

I'm still shocked Trubisky was rated higher than him. Bears actually took that clown at 2 too ROFL

[Kiimo]

And they traded a bunch of picks for nothing to get him, on a team that needs so much after they paid so much for a QB. If Glennon looked like crap they could take a QB in next year's draft. Just a total failure all around.

[Halfcan]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be ****ing LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.

ROFL

[Otter]

I don't like his hair.

Actually, I wouldn't mind if he tightened up that hair cut either.

[Hammock Parties]

This kid will get wrecked in the NFL.

Pass.

ROFLROFLROFL

[wazu]

Why do this to yourselves? Just stop. Take whatever hope you have left that the Chiefs will draft a QB, place them in front of you, and then smash them with a hammer right now.

LMAO

[CasselGotPeedOn]

Actually, I wouldn't mind if he tightened up that hair cut either.

Why would you care about someone else's hair?

[staylor26]

ROFLROFLROFL

You know what they say about glass houses?

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Good times...

[Pitt Gorilla]

If the Mahomes goes early and we can't move up without selling the farm, one guy I'd look at is Nate Peterman.

Great character and has some real tools. Went into Clemson and beat them with a 5 TD performanceim guessing he’s available.

[DRM08]

Didn't have any inside info. Well, not until about 10 days before the draft when I was told they were looking to trade up for Mahomes or McCaffrey.

McCaffrey...hmmm...seems like a waste of a Top 10 pick with these gadget guys. Reggie Bush is another one.

[Hammock Parties]

You know what they say about glass houses?

bro i'm fucking homeless so i might as well

[Pitt Gorilla]

That's what has made me fall for Mahomes. He consistently extends the play, keeps his eyes up and makes tremendous throws to receivers, sometimes in places you would never expect.you’re a ****ing genius. Period. This thread is perfection for you.

[Pitt Gorilla]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be fucking LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.
Middling?

[Sure-Oz]

LMAO thus thread is a dumpster

Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

[Pitt Gorilla]

LMAO thus thread is a dumpster

Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
Pugsnotdrugs was sent from the future. He’s brilliant.

[Hoover]

Sign me up
Nailed it. LOL

[staylor26]

Meh

LMAO

[bigjosh]

Is pugs really Brett veach?

Sent from my LM-Q710(FGN) using Tapatalk

[carcosa]

If Mahomes is there in the 2nd and the Chiefs don't take him we should burn Arrowhead to the ground

Nailed it

[DaFace]

Pugsnotdrugs was sent from the future. He’s brilliant.

Yeah, he batted 1.000 in this thread for sure. Kind of crazy to read.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

Yeah, he batted 1.000 in this thread for sure. Kind of crazy to read.

All credit goes to the kid and the organization for putting in the work to allow him to potentially reach that high as the sky ceiling...

[ModSocks]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be ****ing LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.

QUOTED.

LMAO LMAO LMAO

[Pitt Gorilla]

All credit goes to the kid and the organization for putting in the work to allow him to potentially reach that high as the sky ceiling...That's garbage. You didn't even hedge your bets. You should print this thread and wear it as a t-shirt.

[Deberg_1990]

The only reason this kid could sniff the first 2 rounds is because there's such little talent overall at the position in this draft and there are far too many teams that need a QB in the NFL. He's got alot of flaws. Late day 2 pick at best.

ROFL

[Imon Yourside]

I would definitely think about trading up to get this kid, he's something special i bet.

[Marcellus]

Damn I doubt anyone has ever been more right in CP history than Pugs was wit this thread.

Props.

[SuperChief]

Damn I doubt anyone has ever been more right in CP history than Pugs was wit this thread.

Props.

Seriously. I saw the bump and re-read everything just for the lulz. Pugs NAILED it.

[KC Dan]

Says it all:

[SAUTO]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be fucking LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.
This says all anyone needs to knotwe about clay and his opinion of players ..

Should be someone's sig

[SAUTO]

Okay. Let's say that we feel that he is top 10 worthy on Dorsey's board and he is still there at 10. I googled draft trade chart and the chart I found gave the numer 10 pick worth 1300 and the 27 worth 680, so we would need 620 points in draft value to move up to 10. That would mean our 1st, 2nd and 3rd would still not be enough. The Bills pick at 10. I'm not sure that they would be willing to pass on a quarterback but maybe they would be willing to take Alex Smith in the trade? I would package Alex Smith and our first to move up for him if Dorsey and Reid think he's the guy. Hand the Reigns to Foles for a year. If we take a step back, we take a step back. It would be so worth it if he pans out. Plus, we still have all the rest of our draft picks. Who knows if the Bills would make that trade, but you never know. Cleveland traded the number 2 away last year instead of drafting Wentz. And the Bills would be getting a starting quarterback to stabilize the position like KC did when they got him. I seriously doubt this would ever happen. But a guy can dream.
This was a good guess too

[SAUTO]

Yea. His throwing motion and pocket demeanor look almost lackadaisical It's weird

He is very calm. It's nice to see

[Ming the Merciless]

This kid will get wrecked in the NFL.

Pass.


LOL

[TLO]

Wow

[Molitoth]

This says all anyone needs to knotwe about clay and his opinion of players ..

Should be someone's sig

Clay's wit and media contributions are great for CP.

His talent evaluations... not so much.


GRANTED, Geno Smith could have been way better under Andy Reid. :D

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

Pugs >>>>>>>>>>>Hammock

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

Good times...

Giving you rep. hell I think I'd let you snuggle SR now

[TwistedChief]

Guys, I saw firsthand the look on Clay's face when Mahomes hit Conley in the corner of the endzone. CP is all about snarky comeuppance but Clay had entered the nirvana state that allows him to re-read this thread and not cringe but rather celebrate how wrong he was. Meanwhile, Geno Smith took a nap and went unnoticed.

[redfan]

This is a most excellent read. :thumb:

[-King-]

Don't know if I posted in this thread but I know I was 100% wrong about Mahomes and couldn't be any happier about that fact.
Posted via Mobile Device

[RealSNR]

I hope Alex Smith gets his arms cut off in an accident caused by a drunk chainsaw-juggling clown at his kid's birthday


I guess I’ll count this post as a success in this thread.

Would definitely pay to see that

[Prison Bitch]

Don't think the Pats would do it, pretty much every QB they've played with since Brady has been a pocket passer. But you're probably right, we likely won't get him and I'll be sick over it.

If the Patsies had taken Mahomes, I'd be done with the NFL for the next 10 years.

[kccrow]

You're the one that got me watching a shit-load of this kid pugs. Made me do a 180 on him within 2 weeks time.

[Kiimo]

There was about five minutes I was in on Geno Smith but I hadn't actually watched any footage of him whatsoever.

I was just desperate and that draft sucked so much.

[pugsnotdrugs19]

The irony of all this--I posted this thread on January 16th, 2017. The Monday after we lost to Pittsburgh in the playoffs. I was as annoyed as anyone by that game and immediately began to dig on QB prospects for that upcoming draft.

Coincidentally, that same day that KC lost to Pittsburgh was the day that Rodgers made that spectacular pass to Jared Cook on the sideline that wound up beating the Cowboys in the playoffs.

So when I started looking at QBs, I had that play in mind and was searching for a guy who I thought could replicate throws like the one Rodgers made. Tall task. Can't find QBs like that every year, especially ones that check all the other boxes too.

But I thought he did.

[Easy 6]

I'd forgotten about this post, you called it... take a victory lap

:bravo:

[Kiimo]

It really does feel like a complete dream what has happened. I can't wrap my brain around it and I can't get enough. No wonder Pats fans want to lick Brady's nuts. Can you imagine if Pat won 8 Super Bowls

[SAUTO]

There was about five minutes I was in on Geno Smith but I hadn't actually watched any footage of him whatsoever.

I was just desperate and that draft sucked so much. mahomes is the guy everyone wanted geno to be

[Red Dawg]

Mahomes is the man. It just warms the heart to finally have the QB we dreamed of. Food tastes better, going to work is better because you don't have sit there and bitch about the QB. It's a brilliant time for us.

[Eleazar]

Not gonna be a first round pick.

You can have your middling draft prospect. That's fine.

If the Chiefs pass on a R1 QB in 2018 - and the class is going to be ****ing LLLLLLLLLOADED LOADED - because they have checkdown syndrome and mahomes on the roster, they deserve another 15 years of playoff futility.

:eek:

[Spott]

If the Mahomes goes early and we can't move up without selling the farm, one guy I'd look at is Nate Peterman.

Great character and has some real tools. Went into Clemson and beat them with a 5 TD performance

ROFL

[PHOG]

Well, I thought he was Steph Curry with a helmet on so got him on the horn he said "No Bro, my dad played MLB"./sarcasm

:hmmm:

[IowaHawkeyeChief]

I remember living through the "why did we draft Todd Blackledge and pass on Marino" years... 20+ years of hell that is now erased with the Mahommes success... Sucks to be a Bears fan with the same thoughts for the next 20 years... as I type with fingers crossed.

[DRM08]

There was about five minutes I was in on Geno Smith but I hadn't actually watched any footage of him whatsoever.

I was just desperate and that draft sucked so much.

Geno was quite a fraud even in college. He came to Lubbock with a ton of Heisman hype and got his ass thoroughly kicked by a mediocre Tech team. Rest of the season was pretty rough for Geno after that as well.

WVU started 5-0 and finished 7-6 in 2012. Geno had a sack fumble and two safeties in their bowl game, lol. I don't know why he still ended up with a lot of hype by the time the Draft came around.

[KCTitus]

As an Archivist, it warms my heart to see what bunch of dumbshits the posters of this BB are...

[Willie Lanier]

ROFL

Give him a break no one's batting a thousand regarding predictions

[KCTitus]

Weak arm.

Pass.

This might be the most embarrassing...I'm only to page 5...

[KCTitus]

If the Mahomes goes early and we can't move up without selling the farm, one guy I'd look at is Nate Peterman.

Great character and has some real tools. Went into Clemson and beat them with a 5 TD performance

:facepalm:

[SAUTO]

This might be the most embarrassing...I'm only to page 5...

Pretty sure that's sarcasm...

[Molitoth]

Geno was quite a fraud even in college. He came to Lubbock with a ton of Heisman hype and got his ass thoroughly kicked by a mediocre Tech team. Rest of the season was pretty rough for Geno after that as well.

WVU started 5-0 and finished 7-6 in 2012. Geno had a sack fumble and two safeties in their bowl game, lol. I don't know why he still ended up with a lot of hype by the time the Draft came around.

Honestly Geno had a lot of good things in his college tape. Don't even bring wins and losses into the mix because WV had the second worst defense in the country. We all know mahomes wasn't to blame for the TT win loss record.
It's actually ironic how similar Geno and mahomes college tape is.
Mahomes getting drafted to a legit franchise with a genius head coach who was willing to sit him for a season instead of throwing him to the wolves is something Geno didn't get.

There has been a ton of talent ruined by bad coaching, and bad situations in high pressure cities.

[FAX]

Honestly Geno had a lot of good things in his college tape. Don't even bring wins and losses into the mix because WV had the second worst defense in the country. We all know mahomes wasn't to blame for the TT win loss record.
It's actually ironic how similar Geno and mahomes college tape is.
Mahomes getting drafted to a legit franchise with a genius head coach who was willing to sit him for a season instead of throwing him to the wolves is something Geno didn't get.

There has been a ton of talent ruined by bad coaching, and bad situations in high pressure cities.

Mr. Molitoth bringing the ... ... ... Molitruth.

Getting a guy and coaching a guy are two totally different things. Then, you have the whole "coaching the guy the right way" deal.

It amazes me that so many franchises screw up the QB position either due to poor scouting or poor management. But they do ... and they do it a ton.

The NFL is a win-now sort of deal, I suppose. But it's shocking how many lose-now and lose-later-too scenarios play out in the league.

FAX

[Warrick]

Mahomes has been doing this since he first touched a football... Some more White House highlights.

https://youtu.be/UbkVY0jHfnE

[Pitt Gorilla]

Honestly Geno had a lot of good things in his college tape. Don't even bring wins and losses into the mix because WV had the second worst defense in the country. We all know mahomes wasn't to blame for the TT win loss record.
It's actually ironic how similar Geno and mahomes college tape is.
Mahomes getting drafted to a legit franchise with a genius head coach who was willing to sit him for a season instead of throwing him to the wolves is something Geno didn't get.

There has been a ton of talent ruined by bad coaching, and bad situations in high pressure cities.geno was never going to be confused with a football savant like Mahomes. There is literally no comparison.

[Best22]

I remember living through the "why did we draft Todd Blackledge and pass on Marino" years... 20+ years of hell that is now erased with the Mahommes success... Sucks to be a Bears fan with the same thoughts for the next 20 years... as I type with fingers crossed.

Marino was good, but Mahomes is just a different guy

Let's hope their careers are different as well

[Strongside]

ROFL

Incredible.

[Best22]

Honestly Geno had a lot of good things in his college tape. Don't even bring wins and losses into the mix because WV had the second worst defense in the country. We all know mahomes wasn't to blame for the TT win loss record.
It's actually ironic how similar Geno and mahomes college tape is.
Mahomes getting drafted to a legit franchise with a genius head coach who was willing to sit him for a season instead of throwing him to the wolves is something Geno didn't get.

There has been a ton of talent ruined by bad coaching, and bad situations in high pressure cities.

Mahomes is simpler stronger mentally, smarter, and had higher character than Geno. And more physical talent

No comparison. None.

Geno Smith didn't have it in him.

[Strongside]

Did some more digging on Mahomes.... get this.

Due to his ability to evade rushers and throw on the run both directions, some are saying he has a ceiling that compares to Aaron Rodgers. But, with this unorthodox style, comes a very low floor.

I say let him sit for a year maybe.

God damn son.

[DRM08]

Mahomes is simpler stronger mentally, smarter, and had higher character than Geno. And more physical talent

No comparison. None.

Geno Smith didn't have it in him.

There is a stiffness or rigid nature to Geno's dropback that reminds me of Davis Webb. Both of them have good arms. But they are not a natural playmaker like Mahomes.

Geno doesn't have anything in his tape that looks like the Mahomes scramble TD against the 49ers this past weekend, but you can find dozens of these type of plays by Mahomes in his college and high school film. He's Fran Tarkenton with 10 times the arm strength.

[RedRaider56]

There is a stiffness or rigid nature to Geno's dropback that reminds me of Davis Webb. Both of them have good arms. But they are not a natural playmaker like Mahomes.

Geno doesn't have anything in his tape that looks like the Mahomes scramble TD against the 49ers this past weekend, but you can find dozens of these type of plays by Mahomes in his college and high school film. He's Fran Tarkenton with 10 times the arm strength.

To borrow a quote from the great golfer Bobby Jones: Competitive golf is played mainly on a five-and-a-half-inch course... the space between your ears.

Same could be said about QBs in Football. Mahomes just understands what it is going on the field. Smith would try to force the ball into bad situations. (still does)
Webb in college had the same problem. Great pass, great pass, brain fart pass...

[Dave Lane]

The only reason this kid could sniff the first 2 rounds is because there's such little talent overall at the position in this draft and there are far too many teams that need a QB in the NFL. He's got alot of flaws. Late day 2 pick at best.

Ouch...

[kccrow]

Ouch...

Yep. My initial analysis was off and then I watched about every game he played and had him mocked in the first to KC thereafter. February through the rest of the way. Gave pugs the kudos for turning me onto this guy, then I smashed the table for him.

[lcarus]

I don't know why he still ended up with a lot of hype by the time the Draft came around.

This was a fanbase desperate for a first round QB and he was one of the best coming out of that absolute shit class. EJ Manuel, Geno Smith, Mike Glennon, Matt Barkley, Ryan Nassib, Tyler Wilson, Landry Jones, Brad Sorensen, Zac Dysert. Looking back at that draft, Eric Fisher was a pretty good pick.

[jjchieffan]

Okay. Let's say that we feel that he is top 10 worthy on Dorsey's board and he is still there at 10. I googled draft trade chart and the chart I found gave the numer 10 pick worth 1300 and the 27 worth 680, so we would need 620 points in draft value to move up to 10. That would mean our 1st, 2nd and 3rd would still not be enough. The Bills pick at 10. I'm not sure that they would be willing to pass on a quarterback but maybe they would be willing to take Alex Smith in the trade? I would package Alex Smith and our first to move up for him if Dorsey and Reid think he's the guy. Hand the Reigns to Foles for a year. If we take a step back, we take a step back. It would be so worth it if he pans out. Plus, we still have all the rest of our draft picks. Who knows if the Bills would make that trade, but you never know. Cleveland traded the number 2 away last year instead of drafting Wentz. And the Bills would be getting a starting quarterback to stabilize the position like KC did when they got him. I seriously doubt this would ever happen. But a guy can dream.

Wow! I actually said trade up to 10 with the Bills. I better bookmark this. Now I can claim to be a draftubator. LMAO