Here’s a shocking truth: while Patrick Mahomes is celebrated for his on-field heroics, his off-field impact might just be his greatest legacy. But here’s where it gets controversial—how much credit should athletes like Mahomes receive for their charitable efforts, and does it overshadow their professional performance? Let’s dive in.
Following a tough 28-21 loss to the Buffalo Bills, the Kansas City Chiefs are taking a much-needed breather. Sitting at 5-4 in the AFC West, the team’s margin for error is razor-thin. Mahomes himself acknowledged the urgency, telling reporters, ‘We’ve got to play better football.’ With a critical matchup against the Denver Broncos looming after their bye week, the pressure is on. But amidst the grind, Mahomes and his wife, Brittany, found time to support another team close to their hearts.
On November 9, while the Chiefs rested, the couple stayed in Kansas City to cheer on the KC Current in their NWSL quarterfinal match against Gotham FC. Brittany, a founding co-owner of the Current alongside Chris and Angie Long, has been deeply invested in the team’s success. Mahomes joined as a co-owner in January 2023, further solidifying their commitment. Despite a record-breaking regular season, the Current’s postseason ended abruptly with a 2-1 loss—a stunning upset that left fans reeling.
And this is the part most people miss—Mahomes’ impact extends far beyond the football field. A day before the NWSL match, he was in Lubbock, Texas, as the guest picker on ESPN’s College GameDay. There, he watched his alma mater, Texas Tech, hand BYU its first loss of the season. But the real story? During the game, Josh Abbott of The Josh Abbott Band revealed that Mahomes had quietly helped raise $130,000 for Heaven’s 27 Foundation, honoring the 27 girls who tragically lost their lives in the Guadalupe River flood at Camp Mystic in July.
The Josh Abbott Band’s benefit concert in September raised over $1.2 million for the cause, with Mahomes’ contribution playing a significant role. Abbott celebrated Mahomes’ gesture on Instagram, which the two-time league MVP reposted, shedding light on his behind-the-scenes generosity.
But that’s not all. Last month, Mahomes and Brittany hosted the 6th annual 15 and the Mahomies Foundation Gala in Kansas City, raising over $1.5 million for 27 local charities. The event, attended by Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and his wife Tammy, as well as Mahomes’ family, highlighted the couple’s dedication to improving the lives of children and supporting health, wellness, and community initiatives.
Since founding 15 and the Mahomies in 2019, Mahomes has consistently used his platform to make a difference. But here’s the question: Does his charitable work make him a better role model than his athletic achievements? Or are the two inextricably linked? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
One thing’s for sure—whether on the field or off, Patrick Mahomes is leaving an indelible mark. But as we applaud his generosity, let’s not forget the bigger question: How can we, as a community, amplify these efforts to create lasting change? The ball’s in our court now.