Patrick Mahomes lack of trust in his receivers is actually hurting his (usually clinical) decision making. Kurt Warner has the receipts to show that the receiving unit’s lackluster play is to blame for more than just dropped passes. The NFL analyst and 2017 Hall of Fame inductee analyzed tape from last Sunday’s Chiefs at Raiders game to highlight how much it’s affecting the 2022 NFL MVP.
In his Study Ball segment, Warner starts by introducing the reason behind his tape study: “Let’s take a look at the Chiefs and their passing game. I know we’ve said a lot about the receivers and not being able to catch the ball consistently and all of those different things. As I watch the tape, I wonder how much it’s affecting this guy (Mahomes) right here”.
“Not seeing the same level of play from Mahomes”, Kurt Warner says
The former Rams and Cardinals QB explains that something is off this year with Mahomes himself: “He is so good at playing inside the pocket on top of all the special stuff that he does, but I’m not seeing that same sort of play from him this year”
After analyzing several plays in which the reigning MVP consistently overlooks his first read, Kurt Warner knows something is wrong: “I just expect Mahomes to see some of these things because I’ve seen him make these kind of plays numerous times in the past and it just looks a little bit off”.
As the seasons gone along we have all noticed the issues with the @Chiefs receiver corp, is it having an effect on how @PatrickMahomes is playing the game? Here’s my #StudyBall look at some things I’m seeing weekly… @QBConfidential https://t.co/5RY2ZoblGo
— Kurt Warner (@kurt13warner) November 29, 2023
“I’m starting to wonder if we are not only questioning the things that are going on around Patrick Mahomes, but is it affecting Patrick Mahomes and the way he can play the position starting from inside the pocket?”, a concerned Warner continues.
With more and more tape reviewed, Mahomes’ impatience is what really strikes the NFL analyst. Known for his poise in the pocket, Kansas City’s signal caller is seen caving to light pressures from the secondary. Sometimes recurring to the run, and other times even missing open receivers. Something that was unimaginable just last season.
The 8-3 Chiefs currently lead the AFC West, but it’s no secret that the defense’s play has been clutch in most of those wins. With the trade deadline already elapsed, will Kansas City look to bolster its squad with a free agent signing or continue to bet on its Travis Kelce plus starting receiver trio of Rashee Rice, Justin Watson and Skyy Moore?
