Patrick Mahomes once revealed how being a pro athlete’s son and having LaTroy Hawkins as godfather "prepared" him

Patrick Mahomes was destined for greatness from an early age. Born to pro athlete Pat Mahomes Sr., Patrick Mahomes II knew he wanted to be an athlete but hadn’t decided which sport to pursue. He excelled in baseball and basketball but later took up football and realized he was good at it.

Some would argue that Mahomes had the genetics to be a pro athlete, and Mahomes agrees with that, though for a slightly different reason. In an interview with "Sports Illustrated" in March 2017, before the NFL draft, he said:

“I mean, it's something that I think I've been prepared for just watching my dad, watching my godfather; the Troy (LaTroy Hawkins). I mean, how they executed and had careers in MLB and it was just hard work and just that hunger to always be great.”

Patrick Mahomes used the internal drive to motivate himself

Pat Mahomes Sr. and LaTroy Hawkins shared a long friendship that dated back to their playing days as high school kids. They later became teammates in the MLB for the Minnesota Twins in the 1990s, where they developed a brother-like bond. As a result, Patrick Mahomes was also close to LaTroy Hawkins.

Mahomes has previously explained how observing everyone around his dad working hard to compete at the pro level influenced him. The competition was tough, with athletes in the minor leagues striving to move up to the majors.

Consequently, it was essential for professionals to stay ready and make the most of their opportunities, or else their spot could be taken.

Since his father played in the MLB for 11 seasons, many expected Mahomes to receive valuable advice, especially as he too was once drafted into the MLB. A confident Mahomes responded:

“I mean he tried to, but I mean for me it was like an internal drive. I've always wanted to be a professional athlete. I've always wanted to be the best I can be, and it's something that I just love competing.”

Mahomes further explained that he enjoyed training with his teammates and always tried his best to win every game while building memories with them. He acknowledges his father’s guidance but also credits his success to his own effort.

As the NFL Draft approached, everyone hoped for the best results. Pat Mahomes Sr. expressed his belief that his son was the best in the draft class, but Mahomes remained humble.

“My dad will say some stuff like that, maybe not Aaron Rodgers. He may say stuff like that back home. I mean he's just not going to the media and saying it like that.”

Mahomes was eventually drafted #10 by Andy Reid’s Kansas City Chiefs, and that decision changed the course of history for both of them. Seven years later, Mahomes stands as one of the best QBs in the history of the NFL.