Resonating with his mother, QB Patrick Mahomes also acknowledged that family needs to be prioritized. He realized this through some tough learnings in the NFL.

Patrick Mahomes embodies the untold struggles of NFL families

Patrick Mahomes himself spoke about the struggles in a famed league like the NFL, reflecting, “Every experience, good or bad, you have to learn from.” However, in a rather simple sense, he indicated his set prioritizes despite loving the sport of football. Answering whether he would wish to play as long as Tom Brady did, Mahomes replied, “If I can do that, I’ll continue to play. But if I feel like it’s taking away from my family time, that’s when I’ll know it’s time to go.”

As highlighted by Marlene Dixon, a sports management expert at Texas A&M, the public nature of sports amplifies stress for athletes and coaches alike. When it comes to coaches, the expectation to juggle coaching, fundraising, and being the face of an organization, all while maintaining a personal life, is a tall order.

Surely, it can be difficult for high-level athletes as well. Let’s not forget that many players are also entrepreneurs and could be spreading themselves thin. Dixon’s research underscores the need for intentional support systems, both at work and at home, to navigate this demanding field.

It’s a reminder that even in the competitive arena of sports, the well-being of individuals is crucial in sustaining their passion and performance. For the Mahomes family, it is the family time and their relentless support that seem to be the barrier between success and the unending demands of fame.