Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is the epitome of excellence on the football field.

However, the three-time Super Bowl champion was also a cerebral standout in the classroom.

Feb 11, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after defeating the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

As a student at Texas Tech University, Mahomes not only enjoyed great success as the starting quarterback of the Red Raiders, he also carried an eye-opening, impressive 3.91 grade point average. In fact, per his mother Randi, he always demonstrated an inherent commitment to his academics, as well as athletics.

“He started getting college credits at Tyler Junior College when he was still in high school,” Randi recalled to Tyler Today. “I wanted it to be his decision. I did not want to encourage the wrong decision, one he might regret later in life; however, there is no secret that I always wanted Patrick to get an education. His father and I both missed out on college, and I did not want that to happen to Patrick.”

Mahomes ultimately felt his education was as important as any achievements he would earn on the gridiron. Had he not played professional football, Randi Mahomes revealed that her son would have pursued a graduate degree in sports management.

“With a degree in hand, Patrick figured he’d win either way,” she said.

Mahomes ended up being drafted by the Chiefs with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Since becoming the team’s starting quarterback in 2018, he has earned two NFL MVP awards, three All-Pro selections, six Pro Bowl nominations and has won three Super Bowls, which included three Super Bowl MVPs. His accomplishments have earned him widespread praise from sports journalists, who already consider him to be one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.

Still, his mother will always recognize his scholastic prowess in equal, or greater value than that which he has acquired in a Chiefs uniform.

“I admit I am a proud mom,” Randi Mahomes said. “I am very proud of his athletic achievements. However, I am more proud of his scholastic achievements.”