Patrick Mahomes’ behind-the-back pass to Travis Kelce wasn’t just for fun on Saturday.
The viral connection between the dynamic duo happened because Mahomes was caught off guard by Kelce running an incorrect route. He joked he wanted to teach his eight end a lesson.
“Long story short, Travis didn’t run the route he was supposed to run and it was kind of a behind-the-back pass, kinda, because I was mad at him,” Mahomes said. “He was supposed to run a flat route…and he doesn’t run it. Out of spite, I threw a behind-the-back pass but now it’s going to be a highlight.”
"Out of spite, I threw a behind-the-back pass."
The story of @PatrickMahomes' iconic pass to @TKelce is legendary 😂 pic.twitter.com/pkVwBElGym
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) August 17, 2024
Kelce later gave his side of the story, ribbing Mahomes for his voice in the process and saying the star quarterback mumbled while saying the play:
The eight-yard completion helped the Chiefs set up a field goal and take a 6-0 lead over the Lions.
.@tkelce gives his side of the story and roasts @PatrickMahomes voice while he's at it
"You know he's got the voice thing." 😭 https://t.co/YkMqnnHfkn pic.twitter.com/kDuA2euLTu
— NFL (@NFL) August 17, 2024
Since Mahomes assumed the starting role for the Chiefs in 2018, Kelce has accumulated 7,428 receiving yards and 52 touchdowns. Kansas City has won three Super Bowls during that period and has reached at least the AFC title game every season.