When you think of Patrick Mahomes, images of stunning passes and game-winning drives on the football field come to mind. But what might surprise you is his choice of downtime entertainment—it’s not the football-themed “Madden NFL” video games you might expect. Instead, Mahomes has traded in the gridiron for the battlefields of “Call of Duty,” and he’s not alone.

While Mahomes has graced the cover of “Madden” twice, and his playing style is often compared to something straight out of the game, he prefers to step away from football in his off-season and immerse himself in the fast-paced, action-packed world of “Call of Duty.”

In fact, as he revealed in 2019, Mahomes can easily spend several hours a day playing the game, often reconnecting with childhood friends in the process. It’s a chance for him to unwind and enjoy something different after the grueling demands of the NFL season.

But don’t be fooled—this gaming obsession isn’t just about relaxation. “Call of Duty” has proven to be more than just a distraction for Mahomes and his teammates. During the 2022 NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs experienced a mid-season slump, but it was during this period that Mahomes and his teammates found solace—and unexpected chemistry—in the virtual world of “Call of Duty: Warzone.”

As Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster explained, it was while playing “Warzone” with Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce, and receiver Marques Valdez-Scantling that the team’s camaraderie began to strengthen. The hours spent strategizing and working together in the game translated into a renewed sense of unity and confidence on the field. Smith-Schuster believes that their bonding over the game was a key factor in their Super Bowl-bound resurgence.

The Chiefs’ love for “Call of Duty” has even led to playful rivalries in the world of competitive gaming. Mahomes and former teammate Tyreek Hill once stirred up some friendly trash-talk with professional “COD” League player Josiah “Slacked” Berry. Their playful banter on Twitter showed that their competitive spirits extend beyond the football field and into the digital arena.

For Mahomes, gaming is more than just a pastime—it’s a way to stay connected with his teammates and friends, build chemistry, and have fun in a completely different way. As the quarterback of a Super Bowl-winning team, Mahomes has earned his downtime, and it looks like “Call of Duty” is his game of choice. So, while Mahomes may be known for his jaw-dropping performances on the field, it’s clear that his passion for “Call of Duty” is just another layer to his multifaceted personality.