Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is entering his ninth NFL season in 2025 and approaching the age of 30. During last week’s press conference, the two-time league MVP reflected on his growth and being viewed as a veteran leader.

“First off, kids, I feel like age you a little bit. Having three kids makes you grow up, but it’s been a fun run,” said Mahomes, “We’ve had a lot of great players in this building, a lot of great people, and so it makes it enjoyable to come to work every single day. I still have some guys with me that have been there the whole time, and then adding new guys gives you a new juice and a new spirit to go out there and be even better. A lot of young guys now, so I’m just trying to relate to them as much as I can, but at the same time, I’m still not 30 yet, so I feel like I can for at least right now.”

Mahomes finished 2024 with 3,928 passing yards, 26 passing touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He battled minor injuries again last season but is much wiser about caring for his body.

“I think more than anything I have a better understanding of my body, so I know what I need to get in, I know the extra amount of recovery stuff I need to do, how to feel my best on a day-to-day basis.” said Mahomes, “I mean, obviously, I probably bounced back a little bit quicker when I was younger, but at the same time, I have a better plan and a better standard that I hold myself to on a day-to-day basis so I can be ready for every single practice.”

Last season was his first as a starter without 4,000 passing yards or a Pro Bowl selection. As he soon enters a new career phase, he hopes to add to his success on his resume.