KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith knows firsthand what it’s like to share a locker room with Patrick Mahomes — and his latest comments reveal just how special the reigning Super Bowl MVP truly is.
In a recent interview, Smith opened up about his time mentoring a young Mahomes during the 2017 season, offering rare insight into the early days of one of the NFL’s greatest modern dynasties. “Patrick beat me into the building almost every single day that entire year,” Smith recalled. “He was incredibly curious and just a grinder. The guy loves ball and he’s obsessed about it.”
Mahomes, then a rookie learning behind Smith, quickly showed signs of the intensity and work ethic that would come to define his career. According to Smith, that drive hasn’t faded one bit. “I got the opportunity to be in training camp with him this past camp,” he said. “To watch him operate in the meeting room, I can’t tell you how blown away I was. This guy is on every aspect of his game.”
While Mahomes is often celebrated for his no-look passes and jaw-dropping improvisation, Smith says what truly sets him apart happens long before kickoff. “Sometimes that gets lost with the wow plays,” Smith explained. “He’s obsessed with his craft, he wants the ball in his hands, and he’s not afraid of the moment.”
Smith’s words carry extra weight — after all, he was the established starter when Kansas City drafted Mahomes 10th overall in 2017. Rather than tension, the two built a respectful bond rooted in professionalism and shared purpose. Mahomes has often credited Smith for teaching him how to prepare and lead, lessons that clearly left a mark on both men.
Now, as Mahomes continues to chase more championships and rewrite record books, Smith’s reflections remind fans that greatness doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built — day after day, rep after rep, meeting after meeting — often before the sun even rises.
“Patrick’s success isn’t luck,” Smith said. “It’s obsession, discipline, and love for the game. He’s the real deal.”
And in Kansas City, that relentless pursuit of perfection has become the foundation of a dynasty — one that started with a rookie who refused to be outworked.
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