Evaluating Patrick Mahomes’ Early 2024 Season Performance

Patrick Mahomes entered the 2024 season with high expectations, as always, after leading the Kansas City Chiefs to another Super Bowl title last year. Five games into the new season, the Chiefs remain undefeated with a 5-0 record. However, Mahomes' performance has been somewhat inconsistent by his lofty standards.

While the team’s success is undeniable, Patrick Mahomes' individual performance has sparked some discussion about what’s behind the slow start and how things may develop moving forward. With key personnel changes and some adjustments to the offensive line, Mahomes has been working to find his rhythm. He’s had flashes of brilliance, but also moments where things didn’t click, resulting in costly turnovers. As the Chiefs head out of their bye week, it’s an ideal time to evaluate what’s been working for Mahomes and where improvement is needed as the season progresses.

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Inconsistent Start With Flashes Of Brilliance

Through the first five games, Patrick Mahomes has produced some incredible plays, reminiscent of his MVP form. His best game so far came in the final contest before the bye week, where he threw for 331 yards against the New Orleans Saints. However, it was also his first 300-yard game of the season. Despite the yardage, Mahomes didn’t throw a touchdown pass and added to his interception tally, bringing it to six, which ties him for second-most in the league.

Patrick Mahomes has acknowledged the challenges he's been facing with consistency but has also remained focused on the bigger picture. “That’s why I think it’s special what we’ve been doing early in the season, not playing our best football but finding ways to win,” he said. The issues have stemmed from a variety of factors, including the absence of his top two wide receivers and less-than-stellar offensive line performance. At times, Mahomes has bailed out of the pocket too quickly, while at others, he’s been caught by rushers when staying in the pocket too long.

Despite these challenges, Mahomes remains optimistic. He knows that adjusting to the new personnel and developing chemistry with receivers like rookie Xavier Worthy takes time. With their bye week offering a chance for reflection, Mahomes has plans to address these issues and believes he can turn things around quickly.

Offensive Adjustments and Strategic Challenges

One of the biggest challenges Mahomes has faced this season is how defenses are playing him. Opponents have increasingly used shell coverages designed to take away the deep ball, forcing Mahomes to rely on short passes and the running game. This defensive strategy has made it difficult for Mahomes to showcase the explosive, game-breaking plays he’s known for.

Patrick Mahomes has also commented on the frustration of this approach, saying, "It's not as fun. You're not going to see a lot of one-play touchdowns unless you hit a crazy shot." He has accepted that his game needs to evolve as defenses adjust, and he’s focused on improving his ability to lead long, methodical drives down the field. While he’s working on this, it’s clear that Mahomes misses the ability to stretch the field as he once did with wide receiver Tyreek Hill.

Another factor that has contributed to Mahomes’ slow start is his tendency to overanalyze situations as he’s gained more experience. “And now there are times where I'm like, ‘Well, they’re supposed to be in this coverage and that's not supposed to be there,' and it is," he said. Balancing his instinctive play with a more cerebral approach will be key to him finding consistency in his performances.

Patrick Mahomes' Health and Offensive Line Concerns

One bright spot for Patrick Mahomes this season has been his health. After dealing with various injuries in previous years, Mahomes has managed to stay injury-free through the first five games. This is particularly important given the inconsistent performance of the offensive line, particularly at the tackle position, which has struggled to provide consistent protection. Mahomes has shown the ability to avoid hits and stay on his feet, but the offensive line and Mahomes will have to improve their communication if he is to remain healthy throughout the remainder of the season.

The offensive line’s performance has not only impacted Patrick Mahomes’ confidence but also the overall effectiveness of the offense. At times, Mahomes has appeared hesitant, and the lack of trust in his protection has forced him to make decisions too quickly. Developing a stronger connection with his offensive line will be crucial as the season progresses.

Patrick Mahomes knows this aspect of the game is just as important as any other, especially when it comes to the Chiefs maintaining their winning ways. If the line can provide better protection, Mahomes will be able to regain his confidence and potentially return to the level of play fans have come to expect from him.

Final Thoughts

Patrick Mahomes’ early-season performance in 2024 has been a mixed bag. While the Chiefs are off to an undefeated start, his stats and play have been below his usual standards. His six interceptions are a concern, as is his 88.9 passer rating, which is the lowest of his career this far into a season. However, Mahomes has been here before. Last season, he struggled at times but ultimately delivered his best football when it mattered most—in the postseason.

The bye week also came at a perfect time for Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs to recalibrate. With a focus on improving chemistry with new receivers, adjusting to defensive strategies, and building trust in his offensive line, Mahomes has the tools and the experience to turn things around. While fans may be concerned, there’s still plenty of time for Mahomes to find his groove and lead the Chiefs on another deep playoff run.

Patrick Mahomes has proven time and again that he thrives under pressure, and the early struggles of 2024 could be just another chapter in his story of overcoming adversity. For now, it’s important to remember that even in a “slump,” Mahomes is still finding ways to win games, and that’s what truly matters.

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Article originally written by Jason Dayee