Patrick Mahomes is back at the team’s headquarters for Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Despite being a three-time Super Bowl champion, fans and critics alike have been poking fun at his so-called ‘dad bod.’ The conversation about the physical expectations of NFL quarterbacks didn’t stop there. On “The Rush With Maxx Crosby“ podcast, host Maxx Crosby asked Aidan O’Connell, the QB for the Las Vegas Raiders, about the current trends and expectations for quarterback physiques.

Aidan said, “You know, I think it depends on the system you’re in, the situation, the coach, and the players around you.“ O’Connell said, further added, “I don’t think it’s a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. The game has changed in that way. I’m definitely more of an old-school quarterback, standing in the pocket.”

He also emphasized that despite the changes in the game and the varying physical expectations, the core responsibilities of a quarterback remain the same. “Playing quarterback is about throwing the football and making good decisions. I just try to use my strengths as best I can and chip away at my weaknesses,“ O’Connell explained. Using his own journey as an example, Aidan talked about how criticism and expectations have motivated him. He further said that people are going to say whatever they want, but he has been trying to do what he can do for a long time.

Reflecting on his high school and college experiences, O’Connell shared how those challenges have shaped him. Aidan, who played college football at Purdue and was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, believes that personal growth and adaptation are key. 

Mahomes’ acceptance of his body type and O’Connell’s insights highlight that there is no singular blueprint for success as an NFL quarterback. When the 28-year-old showed up at the Chiefs’ facility, he became the target of some playful jabs from fans.

Fans tease Patrick Mahomes’ ‘Dad Bod’ 

One fan commented on a video of Mahomes posted by the Chiefs on X, saying, “Bro doesn’t even need to be in shape for a three-peat.“ Another added, “Looking a bit tired and out of shape, but still better than all QBs, let’s gooo!!“ In an interview with TIME, Mahomes explained, “I definitely have the dad bod a little bit. I’ll also say I have a great body for a quarterback. You’ve got to have some padding in there to take the hits that we take.”

As Mahomes continues to prepare for another competitive season with the Chiefs, and O’Connell works on his career with the Raiders, their stories remind us that success in the NFL is not just about physical appearance but about skill, determination, and resilience.