The Kansas City Chiefs suffered a bitterly disappointing loss in the Super Bowl to the Philadelphia Eagles and have spent this offseason, as well as OTAs, trying to overcome the clear gaps between the respective rosters over the last few months.
While Kansas City has done an excellent job, it seemed clear that the leaders within the organization weren't as focused as they needed to be. Three-time Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes seemingly admitted as such during his media session on Thursday, acknowledging that a loss like that one can refocus a group.
In fact, Mahomes looked to the defeat as inspiration, noting that he and his teammates might push a bit harder now that they've felt that bitter taste.
"Sometimes in those workouts, when you might be a little tired, you have that extra motivation to finish even stronger."
— Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) May 30, 2025
Patrick Mahomes spoke about how the loss in Super Bowl LIX has impacted the Chiefs' motivation for 2025. pic.twitter.com/AcZJARV43W
Patrick Mahomes Admits Super Bowl Loss to Eagles is Motivating Chiefs During OTAs
"Sometimes in those workouts, when you might be a little tired, you have that extra motivation to finish," Mahomes said to reporters.
It's not particularly surprising to hear him say that, yet it's still an indication that this group is determined to leave the 2025-26 season with a Lombardi Trophy. Falling short on the biggest stage, especially with a three-peat on the line, hurts. Mahomes recognizes that, and it's no shock that he wants to ensure the bitter taste is a foreign one and doesn't become familiar.
The elephant in the room, of course, is Travis Kelce's potential retirement. This could be the legendary tight end's final season, and every teammate wants to send him out on top. It won't be easy, but focusing on the minute details during the summer will help the Chiefs accomplish their outsized goals.
Mahomes has always been driven, though after his second embarrassing Super Bowl loss, perhaps he's taken on a new perspective. If that's the case, Kansas City will be in great shape. Hopefully, the rest of his teammates will assume the same mindset, and the Chiefs won't fall short again.