When Patrick Mahomes signed a contract extension worth half a billion dollars, it was hailed as one of the biggest deals in NFL history. But as the numbers reveal, the deal may have been too team-friendly for the Chiefs quarterback. After taking a closer look at the three-year cash flow for high-end quarterback contracts, he sits at the bottom of the list. This begs the question, why does the most talented quarterback in the league continue to be underpaid?
The General Manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, Brett Veach, recently stated that they will re-evaluate Patrick Mahomes’ contract after Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert sign new deals.
However, this should not be necessary, as his contract was initially team-friendly, sacrificing early-year cash flow. Comparing the cash flow of the current high-end quarterback deals, Mahomes ranks last with only $63 million in the first three years, while Aaron Rodgers is at the top with $150.8 million.
Mahomes is a rare talent with exceptional skills, motivation, determination, and leadership abilities, combined with a degree of selflessness that parallels Tom Brady’s tendency to take less than he deserved. Mahomes deserves to be the highest-paid player in the league. But he apparently is not, which makes the Chiefs’ current situation even more unique.
Patrick Mahomes need to get a new deal immediately
While it may seem like the quarterback is content with his current contract, the numbers paint a different picture. His three-year cash flow is far below that of his peers, and he deserves to be compensated accordingly. As the salary cap continues to increase, it’s only a matter of time before he becomes resentful of his team-friendly deal.
The Chiefs should address the situation before the quarterback becomes resentful and starts to believe that he is getting ripped off.
Kansas City Chiefs should offer him a new contract immediately, without waiting for other quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert to sign their deals. Mahomes’ exceptional performance during the 2022 season, leading the Chiefs to another championship despite an ankle injury, justifies his need for a new contract.
Even when Mahomes receives his adjustment, he may still not be the highest-paid quarterback in the league, which is rare given his outstanding abilities.
