2/18/24 

Jay C. Brandriet

For a handful of seasons, I’ve believed Patrick Mahomes is the “most talented overall quarterback I’ve ever seen.”

After Patrick and the Chiefs beat Baltimore in the AFC Championship game, the Mahomes respect was on full blast.

It was obvious the sports world at large view him as “a top 2 to 5 QB of all time.”

Then Super Bowl 58 happened.

Mahomes is more than “in the neighborhood of G.O.A.T” arguments.”

It’s fair to say we’ve NEVER seen such a great/accomplished NFL player this quickly.

Most opinions are handling the “Mahomes vs Brady” conversation pretty well.

They get that in a vacuum, Patrick is as good or better than anyone that’s lived.

At the same time, understanding Tom is THE standard.

However.

It seems like I’m hearing that “It’s obvious these two are the best ever.”

The “obvious” part is my only issue.

Where do I rank Mahomes after his seventh season?

I’ll put him third all-time on my list.

GIVE JOE HIS RESPECT

My current order would be:

#1- Brady

#2- Montana

#3- Mahomes

It’s more than Joe’s undefeated record in four Super Bowls.

It goes beyond his 11 touchdowns to O interceptions in those wins.

Was it his surgical passing abilities?

Joe’s underrated ability to move?

The ice-cold swagger he exuded?

Toughness?

Having success in the AFC, in a more vulnerable situation?

Mostly, it’s that it took 15 years to do it.

Let’s respect Montana, and the concept of time.

It wasn’t long ago that I viewed Joe as THE greatest.

Someone with THAT status, can’t be faded quickly.

Will getting another ring move Mahomes ahead of Montana in my mind?

I’m sure that would do it.

It could take less?

Three more Pro-Bowl caliber seasons?

Game winning TD in the playoffs next year?

Mahomes rocket ship is unusually fast.

Let’s take a breath.

Number 15 has to keep earning it.

It’s crazy enough I have a 28-year-old over names like Manning, Elway, and Unitas.

Jay C. Brandriet