Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is undoubtedly one of the most recognized figures in football today. The two-time NFL MVP has not only made headlines for his impressive performances on the field but also for his candid remarks about his teammates during the off-season.
During his appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, Mahomes made it clear he does not have any communication with the Chiefs' kicker, Harrison Butker. "Honestly, I don’t talk to Harrison all year long, man. I just let him do his thing," Mahomes stated after the Chiefs clinched the Super Bowl title.
The 28-year-old quarterback elaborated, noting, "But I know if I can just cross the 40, man, if I cross the 40, he’s going to put it through there." His comments highlight his confidence in Butker’s kicking abilities without needing close interactions throughout the season. Nevertheless, some fans are questioning their relationship, particularly following controversies surrounding Butker’s recent remarks.
Butker, also 28, had been in the spotlight for more than just his kicking prowess. While he has achieved noteworthy statistics—hitting over 95% of his field goals and setting the record for the longest kick made during the Super Bowl—his off-field actions drew criticism. He faced backlash after giving his commencement address at Benedictine College on May 11, where he made controversial comments criticizing Pride Month and expressed views perceived as misogynistic.
"For the ladies present today, congratulations on an amazing accomplishment," Butker told graduates. "... I would venture to guess the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring." Such statements prompted significant backlash, particularly from advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and others who found his perspective outdated.
Despite the discontent surrounding Butker's comments, Mahomes has remained focused on the field and his own ambitions as the starting quarterback. He mentioned, "We sit right beside each other in team meetings, and I don’t say one word to him. Only before the season and after the season." His nonchalant approach offers insight on how prioritizing teamwork can sometimes prioritize performance and cooperation over personal relationships.
The Kansas City community has reacted to Butker’s remarks with many taking to social media to voice their displeasure. Fans of Taylor Swift, who is currently dating Mahomes’ teammate Travis Kelce, have gone so far as to demand action against Butker. Justice Horn, chair of Kansas City’s LGBTQ Commission, poignantly noted the disconnect, stating, "Harrison Butker doesn’t represent Kansas City nor has he ever. Kansas City has always been a place..." His comments reflect growing concerns within the community about representation and inclusivity.
On a lighter note, Mahomes has found himself back in the limelight for reasons more nostalgic than recent drama. Video footage from 1999 recently resurfaced, showcasing the future football star at just four years old singing "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." This delightful clip provides fans with yet another glimpse of the superstar’s early promise, though it may not have been destined for the stage.
Yet, the juxtaposition is fascinating; Mahomes, now 29, is reminiscent of his childhood dreams, echoed humorously as he imagines playing Santa to his Chiefs teammates this holiday season. "Now, Pacheco! Now, Hopkins! To the top of the league! Now win, win and win it all!" he sings, weaving both nostalgia and aspirations for the upcoming season.
There’s no denying it; as summer turns to fall, all eyes will remain on Mahomes, now tasked with not only leading his team on the scoreboard but also addressing the social ramifications of his teammates' views. While he may not communicate much with Butker, one can only hope the legendary quarterback's leadership extends beyond the ends of the field as the Chiefs prepare for yet another championship run.
