For the first time in six years, Patrick Mahomes’ name wasn’t among the quarterbacks selected for the Pro Bowl. The NFL dropped its roster for the 2025 games on Thursday, and instead, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson claimed the AFC’s top spots. Mahomes, listed as an alternate, might still make it if one of those guys bows out, but let’s be real: This snub isn’t shaking Kansas City.

The numbers don’t lie, but they don’t tell the whole story

Mahomes’ 2024 season stats are solid but far from the jaw-dropping metrics we’re used to. He wrapped up the regular season with 3,928 passing yards (his lowest as a starter), 26 touchdowns (tied for a career low), and a passer rating of 93.5. That puts him seventh in passing yards, seventh in touchdowns, and 16th in passer rating league-wide. For a guy who usually plays like he’s gaming on rookie mode, these numbers are uncharacteristically pedestrian.

But here’s the kicker: Mahomes has been lights-out since Week 11. Over the last six games, he’s thrown 11 touchdowns with zero interceptions, his longest streak without a pick. The Chiefs went 6-0 during that span, clinched the AFC’s No. 1 seed with a 15-1 record, and are resting their starters in Week 18. So, while the season-long numbers might not scream “MVP,” Mahomes has been dialed in when it matters most.

7 years ago today: Patrick Mahomes made his NFL debut against the Broncos. Harrison Butker kicked a 30-yard game-winning field goal.

Both Mahomes and Butker were rookies. Both now have 3 Super Bowl rings and chasing a 4th. pic.twitter.com/ndIv1lgugd

— Farzin Vousoughian (@Farzin21) December 31, 2024

Pro Bowl snubs happen, but Super Bowls are the goal

Here’s a fun fact: Mahomes has technically missed the Pro Bowl before. Why? Because the Chiefs have been too busy prepping for the Super Bowl. And honestly, if you’re Patrick Mahomes, would you rather be in Orlando tossing balls in a glorified exhibition game or chasing a historic Super Bowl three-peat? Exactly.

The Pro Bowl selections rely on votes from fans, players, and coaches, but it’s not the definitive marker of greatness. Ask any Chiefs fan, and they’ll tell you: They’d trade every Pro Bowl nod for another Lombardi Trophy.

A cautious approach to the playoffs

There’s also been some chatter about Mahomes’ health, with the Chiefs limiting his practice reps after a minor ankle tweak in Week 15. While he hasn’t missed game time, Kansas City is playing it smart. With backup Carson Wentz in the wings, they’ve got the luxury of giving Mahomes the rest he needs. This isn’t about a Pro Bowl snub; it’s about keeping the Chiefs’ biggest asset in prime condition for January.

Why this “snub” is a non-story

In the grand scheme, Mahomes missing the Pro Bowl cut is about as significant as a preseason power ranking. Sure, it’s a headline, but it doesn’t move the needle. Kansas City is focused on one thing: winning another Super Bowl. Mahomes is playing some of his best football when it counts, and the Chiefs are gearing up to chase NFL history.

So, let Burrow, Allen, and Jackson take their Pro Bowl bows. Mahomes and the Chiefs have bigger plans.