Patrick Mahomes' Change in Physical Appearance Draws Attention

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs had a 2025 NFL season to forget, finishing with a 6-11 record and missing out on the playoffs for the first time since the quarterback joined the team. But the Chiefs will be looking to get back into Super Bowl contention in 2026, opening the new season on Sept. 14 against Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos.

Mahomes was unable to finish the 2025 season after suffering a torn ACL in his left knee during a Week 15 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. However, the former Texas Tech star has progressed well in his recovery, returning to limited on-field work during Kansas City's recent OTAs and is expected to be ready for the Week 1 matchup against its AFC West rival.

While Mahomes may have had a disappointing season last year, he has already become one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history during his nine-year career. Mahomes has not only led Kansas City to three Super Bowl wins in five appearances, creating one of the best dynasties in history, but has also earned himself two MVP awards and six Pro Bowl nods.

And on Monday, as Mahomes continues preparation for his 10th NFL season, the Chiefs shared a post about their star, comparing images from his rookie season to now. Coming into the league as the No. 10 pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, Mahomes sported longer and curlier hair than he does now. And entering Year 10, the quarterback also has more definition in his shoulders, along with a much bigger smile.

"A decade with @PatrickMahomes ," the Chiefs wrote on X.

A decade with @PatrickMahomespic.twitter.com/lAeQ8A7teu

— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) June 8, 2026

NFL fans took notice of Mahomes' change in appearance from his rookie year to now, taking to social media to leave their thoughts.

"Holy hell, he has aged ," one fan said.

"That smile is wide knowing he has a RB1," claimed another.

"That hair getting long again… league on notice," wrote a third.

"Looks the same, just a haircut," posted a fourth.

"Little change," commented a fifth.

"Dude doesn't age," added a sixth.

Following OTA's, which ended on June 3, the Chiefs will begin mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, with training camp set to begin toward the end of July.

Related: Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes Loses Wide Receiver in Free Agency on Monday

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This story was originally published June 8, 2026 at 6:40 PM.