Patrick Mahomes is a name that resonates not just with Kansas City Chiefs fans, but with football enthusiasts across the globe. A two-time Super Bowl champion and NFL MVP, Mahomes has already etched his name into the annals of football greatness.

But have you ever wondered what advice he would give his younger self if he had the chance?

As Mahomes continues to shatter records and redefine the quarterback position, he also reflects on the challenges and lessons that shaped him before he became a household name.

So, what would Patrick Mahomes tell his 18-year-old self? Let’s dive into the shocking truths that the young athlete might have never anticipated.

1. Embrace the Pressure—It’s Your Best Friend

When Mahomes was 18, he was still in high school, balancing football, baseball, and the pressures of deciding his future. Today, he’s no stranger to high-pressure situations. If he could go back, Mahomes would likely reassure his younger self that the pressure he feels is a gift. It’s what pushes him to greatness. “Pressure is a privilege,” he might say. “It means you’re expected to deliver.”

Facing relentless scrutiny in college and the NFL, Mahomes has learned that the ability to thrive under pressure is a game-changer. He would advise his younger self to welcome the nerves before a big game and know that they only mean one thing: you’re doing something important.

2. Stay Humble, but Be Confident

Despite his tremendous success, Mahomes is often praised for his humility. But it wasn’t always easy. Growing up in the shadow of his father, Pat Mahomes Sr., a former MLB player, young Patrick felt the weight of expectations. If he could speak to his teenage self, he’d likely stress the importance of finding a balance between humility and self-confidence.

“Don’t be afraid to show your confidence,” Mahomes might say. “But always remember where you came from.” The star quarterback has stayed grounded thanks to his strong family values, and he’d surely advise his younger self to maintain that foundation no matter how high his star rises.

3. Your Unique Style Will Define You

One of the things that make Mahomes stand out in the NFL is his unconventional playing style. His no-look passes, incredible mobility, and ability to throw from impossible angles have redefined what it means to be a quarterback. At 18, Mahomes might have felt pressure to play a more traditional game.

If he could travel back in time, Mahomes would probably tell his younger self, “Your uniqueness is your strength.” He’d encourage himself to embrace the quirks of his playing style, which eventually became his signature and earned him the admiration of fans and analysts alike. The lesson? Don’t conform—be yourself.

4. Don’t Dwell on the Mistakes

Mahomes is the epitome of resilience. But like any athlete, he’s had his fair share of mistakes on the field. From interceptions to fumbles, it’s easy for a young player to get bogged down by errors. If Mahomes could go back, he would tell his 18-year-old self not to dwell on the mistakes. “Every loss, every mistake is a learning opportunity,” he’d say.

After all, Mahomes knows that bouncing back from setbacks is what separates good players from great ones. His ability to quickly recover and focus on the next play is one of the reasons he’s so successful today.

5. Enjoy the Journey

As a 28-year-old quarterback with an impressive list of accomplishments, Mahomes might remind his younger self to take a step back and enjoy the ride. The young Patrick Mahomes was hyper-focused on his goals, but the future NFL star would likely encourage him to savor every moment—the highs and the lows.

“You only get to experience these things once,” Mahomes might say. “Don’t rush it. Take it all in, and appreciate the grind.” This advice is a powerful reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination.

6. Trust the People Around You

Mahomes credits much of his success to the people in his life, from his coaches to his family to his teammates. Looking back, he might tell his 18-year-old self to fully trust in the relationships he’s building. “You don’t get to the top alone,” Mahomes might say. “Surround yourself with people who believe in you, and never forget to show them gratitude.”

His close bond with his family and support system is well-known, and Mahomes would likely remind his younger self to continue nurturing those connections.

7. The Grind Never Stops

Even with all his accomplishments, Mahomes knows that the grind never stops. If he could speak to his 18-year-old self, the message would be clear: “Keep working hard—no matter what.” Mahomes has always had a relentless work ethic, and he would tell his younger self that hard work and preparation will be the keys to his future success.

“Don’t take any shortcuts,” Mahomes might warn. “Stay consistent, stay focused, and keep pushing yourself every day. It’s what will set you apart from the rest.”

Conclusion: The Lessons That Shaped a Legend

In many ways, the advice Patrick Mahomes would give to his younger self mirrors the qualities that have made him a legend in the making: resilience, confidence, hard work, and gratitude. Though we may never know exactly what Mahomes would say to his 18-year-old self, one thing is certain—his journey from an ambitious teenager to an NFL superstar has been nothing short of remarkable.

So, what’s the shocking truth Mahomes would reveal to his younger self? Perhaps it’s this: Everything you’re going through now is preparing you for something far greater than you can imagine. And when the time comes, you’ll be more than ready.