Tom Brady handed Patrick Mahomes his first three major losses

In the world of professional football, few debates generate as much passion as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) quarterback discussion. For years, Tom Brady has held this title undisputedly, with an astonishing seven Super Bowl rings, numerous records, and a legacy of dominance that has spanned over two decades.

However, there’s one name that keeps surfacing in the conversation as Brady’s potential successor: Patrick Mahomes. The Kansas City Chiefs’ superstar has electrified the league with his arm strength, playmaking ability, and championship pedigree. Despite his early success, though, Mahomes still has a long way to go before surpassing Brady.

One of the most interesting aspects of their rivalry is that Brady handed Mahomes three major firsts:

• His first regular-season loss
• His first NFL Playoffs loss
• His first Super Bowl loss

With Mahomes still in the prime of his career, will he eventually surpass Brady as the GOAT? Let’s break it down.

Brady vs. Mahomes: A Head-to-Head Breakdown

Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes have faced each other six times, with each winning three games. However, when it comes to big moments, Brady has often had the edge.

First Regular-Season Matchup (2018)

Mahomes’ first test against Brady came during Week 6 of the 2018 NFL season, his first as a starter. The Chiefs entered the game undefeated, but the Patriots, led by Brady, handed Mahomes his first regular-season loss in a thrilling 43-40 shootout.

2018 AFC Championship Game

Later that season, the two met again in the AFC Championship Game, a battle that would determine who went to Super Bowl LIII. Despite an incredible effort from Mahomes, Brady and the Patriots won in overtime (37–31), sending Mahomes home without a shot at his first Super Bowl.

Super Bowl LV (2021)

The most iconic showdown between the two happened on the biggest stage—Super Bowl LV. This time, Mahomes had already secured his first ring by winning Super Bowl LIV the year before. However, when he faced Brady’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Chiefs suffered a 31-9 blowout loss.

Mahomes struggled against the Bucs’ relentless pass rush, while Brady orchestrated another masterclass performance, securing his seventh Super Bowl and handing Mahomes his first Super Bowl defeat.

Statistical Comparison: Brady vs. Mahomes

While Brady has retired, Mahomes is still adding to his resume. But how do they compare so far?

Super Bowl Appearances and Wins

• Tom Brady: 10 Super Bowl appearances, 7 wins
• Patrick Mahomes: 5 Super Bowl appearances (as of 2025), 3 wins

Mahomes is on track to potentially match or exceed Brady’s number of Super Bowl appearances, but securing four more rings will be a daunting task.

Career Passing Yards and Touchdowns

• Brady: 89,214 passing yards, 649 touchdowns
• Mahomes (as of 2025): Over 30,000 passing yards, 240+ touchdowns

Mahomes is currently pacing ahead of Brady’s early career numbers, but longevity will be key.

Head-to-Head Stats

• Brady vs. Mahomes overall record: 3-3
• Mahomes’ passing yards per game vs. Brady: 348.3 YPG
• Brady’s passing yards per game vs. Mahomes: 300.5 YPG

Mahomes has put up better individual numbers when facing Brady, but in high-stakes games, Brady’s teams have been more successful.

What Does Mahomes Need to Do to Surpass Brady?

While Mahomes is on an elite trajectory, surpassing Brady as the GOAT will take more than just talent. He needs to achieve several key milestones.

Win More Championships

At the end of the day, Super Bowls matter most in GOAT discussions. Brady’s seven rings are his biggest argument for GOAT status. If Mahomes wins five or six more, he would have a legitimate case.

However, winning Super Bowls is not easy. Brady’s ability to remain dominant over two decades helped him separate from legends like Joe Montana and Peyton Manning.

Sustain Excellence for 15+ Years

Brady played 23 seasons, maintaining a high level of play into his mid-40s.

Mahomes, currently in his eighth season (2025), is still under 30 years old. If he can play into his late 30s or early 40s at an elite level, his case will become much stronger.

Continue Breaking Records

• Brady holds records for career passing yards, touchdowns, and wins.
• Mahomes has the potential to break some of those records, especially if he plays for two decades.

As Mahomes continues shattering single-season records, he must also aim for career milestones that match or surpass Brady’s.

Adapt and Evolve

One of the underrated aspects of Brady’s greatness was his ability to evolve.

• In the early 2000s, he was a game manager in New England.
• In the 2010s, he transformed into an elite passer with high-volume production.
• In Tampa Bay, he adjusted to Bruce Arians’ aggressive downfield system.

Mahomes, known for his improvisational skills and arm talent, may lose athleticism with age. If he adapts—like Brady did—he can extend his prime and stay dominant for years.

The Psychological Edge: Mahomes’ Biggest Obstacle?

One of the biggest differences between Brady and Mahomes is their mental approach to the game.

Brady’s “Killer Mentality”

• Obsessed with winning at all costs
• Always motivated by critics and doubters
• Known for his intense preparation and leadership

Brady’s mental toughness is one of the reasons he thrived under pressure and delivered in the clutch.

Mahomes’ Approach

• More relaxed and improvisational
• Excels at making jaw-dropping plays
• Still developing his leadership style

While Mahomes has an incredible ability to perform in big moments, he must continue honing his leadership and mindset to sustain long-term dominance.

Will Mahomes dethrone Brady as the GOAT?

The GOAT conversation is fluid, and Mahomes still has many years ahead to make his case.

However, Brady’s career longevity and unmatched achievements make him the undisputed GOAT for now.

That being said, Mahomes is the best candidate to challenge Brady’s throne. If he can:
✔ Win at least 5 more Super Bowls
✔ Continue playing at an elite level for 15+ years
✔ Break multiple all-time records
✔ Maintain championship-level consistency

Then yes—Mahomes could eventually surpass Brady.

For now, though, Brady remains the GOAT. But if Mahomes continues at his current pace, the GOAT conversation in 2035 could look very different.

Final Thoughts

The NFL has been blessed with legendary quarterbacks, but only a select few enter the GOAT conversation.

• Tom Brady set the gold standard with 7 Super Bowls, 3 MVPs, and an unparalleled work ethic.
• Patrick Mahomes is the most talented quarterback of his generation and is on pace to challenge Brady’s legacy.

Only time will tell if Mahomes can dethrone Brady, but one thing is certain: he’s already made it a debate worth having.

Who do you think is the GOAT? Let us know in the comments!