Peyton Manning calls Mahomes and Chiefs the NFL’s ‘bully’: “They’ve earned it”

Patrick Mahomes has become the NFL’s modern-day legend, rewriting the record books with his incredible performances. As of February 1, 2025, he’s notched 17 playoff wins, surpassing Joe Montana’s 16, and boasts a postseason passer rating of 105.8 with 5,557 yards, 43 touchdowns, and just 8 interceptions in 20 games. His .850 playoff winning percentage cements him as one of the most clutch players in NFL history.

So, what makes Mahomes so special? Even Peyton Manning, a legend in his own right, is in awe. “I’m not sure anybody can speak about Patrick, about what it is except him because it is unique. It is different,” Manning said on the Pat McAfee Show. “I think he could beat you in so many different ways.” Whether it’s throwing from the pocket or making magic on the run, Mahomes has a knack for turning chaos into brilliance.

The Kansas City Chiefs, led by Mahomes, have become the NFL’s ultimate “bully,” as Manning puts it. “Their team never flinches because they’re like, ‘Hey, we’ve been here before. We can come back,'” Manning explained. “They’re the bully, and they’ve earned it.” It’s a reputation built on resilience and an uncanny ability to rise to the occasion.

Comparing Mahomes to Manning is like looking at two eras of greatness. Manning’s 71,940 yards and 539 touchdowns over 266 games set the standard for longevity. But Mahomes? In just 112 games, he’s thrown for 32,352 yards and 245 touchdowns, with a 102.1 regular-season passer rating and an even more impressive 105.8 in the playoffs. While Manning’s career was a marathon, Mahomes is sprinting toward the Hall of Fame.