Patrick Mahomes has won his second MVP award in five seasons. The quarterback is the new figurehead of the NFL and in a way succeeds Tom Brady, who has now finally retired. But Mahomes still lacks the famous rings to rise from superstar to “GOAT”. One comment

Patrick Mahomes is the new face and figurehead of the NFL at least since his second MVP title, which he received last night.

The timing of the passing of the torch could hardly have been better. Tom Brady, the “GOAT”, the “Greatest of all Time”, has just announced his retirement again – this time for good. Mahomes is his legitimate successor. But to step out of his shadow, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback is missing rings – Super Bowl rings.

Individually, the 27-year-old can easily keep up with Brady. Should Mahomes have a similarly long career, Brady will have to tremble for many of his records. A third MVP title is certainly within the Chiefs quarterback’s grasp. Even the “GOAT” did not receive more in his playing days. But being the most valuable player of a season several times does not put you on the same level as Brady. Aaron Rodgers can tell you a thing or two about that.

Patrick Mahomes: Winning the 2023 Super Bowl is mandatory

Mahomes is by no means just an individually valuable player, but after six years in the NFL, the bottom line is only one Super Bowl title. In his second appearance, he lost – to Brady, of all people. The latter’s Super Bowl record is 7-3. He alone has more titles than any franchise. If Mahomes wants to move up in the GOAT discussion, he’ll have to measure up.

The Chiefs superstar brings the total package, the potential to be the new “Greatest of all Time.” On Sunday, he can take the next step in that direction against the Philadelphia Eagles. But if he wants to follow in Brady’s footsteps, he will have no choice but to get his second ring. The fact that Mahomes would be the first player of this millennium to win the Super Bowl as the reigning MVP seems almost incidental.

The second MVP honour for Mahomes is deserved, no question. But in the “GOAT” debate, it is at best an incentive, but not an entitlement. In the end, the Super Bowl rings are what count there.