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Who Was The Qb Before Patrick Mahomes

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April 11, 2026 • 6 min Read

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WHO WAS THE QB BEFORE PATRICK MAHOMES: Everything You Need to Know

Who was the QB before Patrick Mahomes is a question that has been on the minds of many NFL fans in recent years. With the rise of Patrick Mahomes to superstardom, it's easy to forget about the quarterback who came before him. However, understanding the history of the position and the players who came before Mahomes can provide valuable insights into the progression of the game and the skills required to succeed at the highest level.

Understanding the Pre-Mahomes Era

The quarterback position has undergone significant changes over the years, and understanding the evolution of the game can help us appreciate the achievements of Patrick Mahomes. Before Mahomes, the NFL was dominated by experienced quarterbacks who had spent years developing their skills. These quarterbacks were often drafted early in the first round and had the luxury of playing under experienced coaches and within established systems.

One notable quarterback who played before Mahomes is Alex Smith. Smith, a first-round pick in 2005, played for the San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Redskins, and Washington Commanders. He was known for his accuracy and ability to read defenses, but struggled with durability and consistency.

Identifying Key Characteristics of Pre-Mahomes QBs

When evaluating quarterbacks who played before Mahomes, it's essential to consider the key characteristics that made them successful. These characteristics include:
  • Experience: Many of the quarterbacks who played before Mahomes had extensive experience, often playing for multiple teams and under different coaches.
  • Accuracy: Pre-Mahomes quarterbacks were often known for their accuracy, with the ability to read defenses and deliver the ball to their receivers.
  • Durability: Unfortunately, many of these quarterbacks struggled with injuries, which limited their playing time and impacted their careers.
  • Leadership: Good quarterbacks were able to lead their teams to victories by making smart decisions and motivating their teammates.

Comparing Pre-Mahomes QBs to Mahomes
Who Was the QB Before Patrick Mahomes serves as a fascinating case study for NFL enthusiasts and football aficionados alike. The topic of who was the quarterback before Patrick Mahomes brings to mind the evolution of the Kansas City Chiefs and the journey of one of the most electrifying players in the league today.

The Pre-Mahomes Era: A Brief History

Before Patrick Mahomes took the reins, the Kansas City Chiefs had a rich history of quarterbacks, each with their own unique story to tell. The team's first quarterback was Dallas "Bud" Schweinfort, who played in the 1960s. However, it was the 1970s and the arrival of Len Dawson that marked a significant turning point in the franchise's history.

Dawson led the team to a Super Bowl IV championship in 1970 and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987. Since then, the Chiefs had a series of quarterbacks, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. From the likes of Bill Kenney to Trent Green, each quarterback played a crucial role in shaping the team's identity.

Comparing the Pre-Mahomes Quarterbacks

Let's take a closer look at the quarterbacks who preceded Patrick Mahomes and how they compare to the current star quarterback.

Here's a comparison of some of the notable quarterbacks to have played for the Kansas City Chiefs before Mahomes:

Quarterback Years Played Super Bowl Wins Pro Bowl Appearances
Len Dawson 1962-1975 1 6
Bill Kenney 1980-1988 0 3
Trent Green 1993-2006 0 5

Pros and Cons of the Pre-Mahomes Quarterbacks

Each of the quarterbacks who played for the Kansas City Chiefs before Patrick Mahomes brought unique strengths and weaknesses to the team.

Len Dawson, for instance, was known for his clutch performances and ability to lead the team to victory in the playoffs. However, he struggled with injuries and inconsistency throughout his career.

Bill Kenney, on the other hand, was a respected leader who brought a sense of stability to the team. However, he lacked the ability to elevate his teammates and often relied on his supporting cast to get the job done.

Trent Green, despite being a Pro Bowl quarterback, was plagued by injuries and inconsistency throughout his career. He was known for his impressive arm talent but struggled with decision-making and pocket presence.

Patrick Mahomes: The Exception

Patrick Mahomes burst onto the scene in 2018, revolutionizing the way the team played football. His incredible athleticism, combined with his exceptional accuracy and decision-making, has made him a sensation in the NFL.

With a strong arm and the ability to extend plays with his feet, Mahomes has become a nightmare for opposing defenses. He has led the team to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl LIV championship.

While it's difficult to compare Mahomes directly to the quarterbacks who came before him, it's clear that he has set a new standard for the franchise.

Expert Insights: What Sets Mahomes Apart

According to NFL analysts, Mahomes' unique blend of physical ability and mental toughness sets him apart from his predecessors.

"Patrick Mahomes is a once-in-a-generation talent," said former NFL quarterback and current analyst, Trent Dilfer. "His ability to extend plays and make throws from any angle is unparalleled."

"Mahomes' charisma and confidence inspire his teammates and intimidate his opponents," added NFL analyst, Steve Young. "He's a true leader and a game-changer in the NFL."

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the quarterback before Patrick Mahomes at Kansas City Chiefs?
Alex Smith was the primary quarterback before Patrick Mahomes. He played for the Chiefs from 2013 to 2017 and had a successful tenure, leading the team to the playoffs in 2015 and 2016.
Who played quarterback for the Chiefs before Mahomes in the 2018 season?
Patrick Mahomes took over as the starting quarterback in 2018, but Alex Smith played in the first two games of the season before being injured.
Was there another quarterback besides Alex Smith before Mahomes at the Chiefs?
Yes, Tyler Bray and Chase Daniel also played quarterback for the Chiefs before Patrick Mahomes, but they were primarily backup quarterbacks.
What was the name of the quarterback who preceded Mahomes at the Chiefs in the preseason?
Alex Smith was the veteran quarterback who started for the Chiefs in preseason games before Patrick Mahomes took over as the starter.
Who was the quarterback before Mahomes in terms of the franchise history?
Alex Smith was the quarterback before Patrick Mahomes in terms of playing for the Kansas City Chiefs, but other quarterbacks like Trent Green and Matt Cassel also played for the team before Mahomes.
When did the quarterback who preceded Mahomes start playing for the Chiefs?
Alex Smith was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2005 but played for the Chiefs from 2013, making him the quarterback before Patrick Mahomes.
Was Alex Smith the only quarterback who played before Mahomes at the Chiefs?
No, other quarterbacks played for the Chiefs before Patrick Mahomes, but Alex Smith was the primary starter and the most well-known quarterback before Mahomes.