The reigning AFC champions, Kansas City Chiefs, opened their necessary minicamp this week, and whereas the sting of their 40-22 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles in Tremendous Bowl LIX nonetheless lingers, there was no scarcity of vitality or optimism on day one.
Patrick Mahomes, the face of the franchise and arguably your complete NFL, introduced his ordinary charisma to the apply area.
In a second that rapidly lit up social media, he was seen juggling a soccer along with his ft, mimicking soccer footwork in a approach that drew comparisons to Lionel Messi.
And whereas Mahomes might not have a World Cup or Ballon d’Or to his title, followers had been greater than glad along with his three Tremendous Bowl rings.
Jokes and admiration quickly crammed the remark sections, with some customers calling for AI bot Grok to generate a picture of Mahomes carrying a Actual Madrid jersey.
Chiefs convey again acquainted face
Including to the thrill was the shock look of Alex Smith, the person who as soon as held the reins in Kansas Metropolis earlier than passing the torch to Mahomes.
Smith, who posted a formidable 50-26 report because the Chiefs’ starter from 2013 to 2017 and led them to 4 playoff berths, is unofficially stepping in as a mentor for the staff’s younger quarterbacks.
Although not formally on the teaching workers, Smith‘s presence stirred enthusiasm amongst followers, lots of whom consider he deserves a everlasting position throughout the franchise.
The quarterback-turned-broadcaster continues to be revered in Kansas Metropolis, not only for his on-field contributions, however for the instrumental position he performed in Mahomes‘ growth.
The sight of Mahomes and Smith reuniting on the sphere added a layer of sentiment to the day. For followers, it was a reminder of how foundational Smith was in shaping the Chiefs’ fashionable period of dominance.
Messi’s presence loomed massive over Tremendous Bowl LIX
Forward of the Tremendous Bowl earlier this 12 months, Mahomes was advised that Messi can be within the stands. Requested concerning the legendary Argentine ahead, the Chiefs quarterback did not hesitate to reward him.
“He is the GOAT of his career, and to have somebody like that on the recreation might be superior as a result of I will get to showcase who I’m and what expertise I’ve,” Mahomes mentioned.
Kansas Metropolis struggled to maintain tempo with Philadelphia, and if not for 2 garbage-time touchdowns, the scoreline may need gone down as essentially the most lopsided in Tremendous Bowl historical past.
