Where Did Patrick Mahomes Go to College?
Updated on:
February 9, 2026
Learn where Patrick Mahomes went to college, what he studied, and how his time there helped shape his path to becoming an NFL superstar.
Patrick Mahomes, the star quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, is widely regarded as one of the most talented and exciting players in the NFL today. With his incredible arm strength, agility, and ability to make plays under pressure, he has quickly become a household name.
However, before he became an NFL superstar, Mahomes was developing his skills for his professional career at the college level. So, where did Patrick Mahomes go to college? Mahomes attended Texas Tech University, where he played for the Red Raiders football team.
Patrick Mahomes College Stats
During his three years at Texas Tech, Patrick Mahomes put up record-breaking numbers that made him one of the top quarterbacks in college football. He completed over 850 passes for more than 11,000 yards and 93 touchdowns, showing his ability to consistently move the ball through the air. On the ground, he added over 800 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns, making him a dual-threat who could extend plays when needed.
Mahomes had several standout games that cemented his reputation. As a freshman, he threw for 598 yards and six touchdowns against Baylor, a performance that announced him as a rising star. In 2016, he delivered one of the most famous games in NCAA history, posting 734 passing yards and five touchdowns in a 66–59 shootout against Oklahoma. These efforts highlighted his rare combination of arm talent, vision, and toughness.
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College Years at Texas Tech University
Patrick Mahomes enrolled at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, TX, in 2014. Texas Tech, a member of the Big 12 Conference, is known for its strong athletic programs and high-octane offensive football style, which perfectly suited Mahomes' playing abilities.
After graduating from Whitehouse High School in Whitehouse, TX, Mahomes was a three-star recruit, recognized for his potential but not yet considered an elite prospect. However, his time at Texas Tech would change that perception dramatically.
Freshman Year
During his freshman year in 2014, Mahomes began as a backup quarterback to Davis Webb. However, due to other players' injuries and his impressive performances in practice, Mahomes was a starter later in the season.
He appeared in seven games, starting in the final three, and quickly showed his potential. Mahomes threw for over 1,500 yards with 16 touchdowns and four interceptions, demonstrating a strong arm and a knack for making plays both inside and outside the pocket.
His performances, particularly his effort against Baylor, set the stage for what would come next.
Sophomore Year
By his sophomore year in 2015, Mahomes had solidified his position as Texas Tech's starting quarterback. He led the Big 12 Conference in several statistical categories, including passing yards and total offense.
Mahomes threw for over 4,600 yards with 36 touchdowns and 15 interceptions while also adding nearly 500 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make difficult throws on the run drew attention from scouts and analysts across the country.
Texas Tech's high-powered offense, led by head coach Kliff Kingsbury, gave Mahomes the freedom to showcase his full range of skills, allowing him to make a name for himself as one of the top quarterbacks in college football.
Junior Year
Mahomes's junior year in 2016 was when he truly cemented his status as an elite college quarterback and a top NFL prospect. He led the nation in passing yards (5,052) and total offense (5,312 yards) while throwing for 41 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
His 734-yard, five-touchdown performance against the University of Oklahoma in a 66-59 shootout remains one of the most memorable games in college football history and exemplifies his ability to put up staggering numbers and perform in high-pressure situations.
Despite Mahomes' outstanding individual performances, Texas Tech struggled defensively, leading to a less-than-stellar team record. However, Mahomes' ability to produce extraordinary numbers and showcase his leadership and resilience stood out to NFL scouts.
By the end of his junior season, Mahomes had set several school and NCAA records, making it clear that he was ready to take his talents to the next level.
Patrick Mahomes Baseball Career at Texas Tech
In addition to his football career, Mahomes played baseball at Texas Tech as both a pitcher and an outfielder. He inherited his love of the sport from his father, Pat Mahomes Sr., who spent over a decade as a Major League Baseball pitcher. This background gave Mahomes a natural understanding of throwing mechanics and athletic movement that translated well to football.
While at Texas Tech, Mahomes split time between football and baseball before ultimately deciding to focus fully on the gridiron. His baseball experience not only showcased his athletic versatility but also contributed to the arm strength and unique throwing angles that have become trademarks of his NFL game. The crossover between sports reinforced his reputation as one of the most dynamic athletes in his class.
Declaring for the NFL Draft
Following his standout junior season, Mahomes decided not to attend college during his senior year and instead declared for the 2017 NFL Draft. He wanted to take advantage of his high draft stock and capitalize on his record-setting college career.
His decision proved to be a good one—Mahomes was selected 10th overall by the Kansas City Chiefs, who saw in him the potential to become a franchise quarterback.
Impact of College Experience on Mahomes' NFL Career
Patrick Mahomes' time at Texas Tech played a crucial role in his development as a quarterback. The high-tempo, pass-heavy offense he ran under Coach Kliff Kingsbury allowed him to develop his arm strength, accuracy, and decision-making skills.
Plus, playing in the Big 12 Conference, known for its high-scoring offenses and less emphasis on defense, gave Mahomes numerous opportunities to become a star quarterback in a competitive environment.
The challenges he faced at Texas Tech, including playing on a team that often struggled defensively, helped Mahomes develop the resilience and mental toughness that have become hallmarks of his NFL career. He learned to lead by example, perform under pressure, and make the most of every opportunity—traits that have served him well in the NFL.
FAQs About Patrick Mahomes’ College Years
Many fans are curious about Patrick Mahomes’ college experience, from his education to his achievements on the field. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
Did Patrick Mahomes Graduate From College?
No, Mahomes left Texas Tech after his junior season to enter the 2017 NFL Draft. While he did not complete his senior year, his college career had already secured him a place as one of the top prospects in the nation. His decision to leave early proved wise, as he was drafted 10th overall by the Kansas City Chiefs.
What Was Patrick Mahomes’ Major at Texas Tech?
Mahomes majored in marketing while attending Texas Tech University. His focus on business studies reflected an interest beyond sports, though his football career quickly became his main priority. Even though he did not finish his degree, his time in the program showed his ability to balance athletics with academics.
How Many Years Did Patrick Mahomes Play in College?
Mahomes played three years of college football at Texas Tech, from 2014 through 2016. Over those seasons, he progressed from a promising freshman starter to the nation’s leading passer and a top NFL draft pick. His rapid development highlighted the growth that made him ready for professional football.
Did Patrick Mahomes Play Other Sports at Texas Tech?
In addition to playing quarterback for the Red Raiders football team, Mahomes also competed as a pitcher and outfielder on the baseball team. His multi-sport background not only showcased his athletic versatility but also contributed to his unique throwing style in football. This crossover experience is part of what makes him so effective at improvising on the field.
What Awards Did Patrick Mahomes Win in College?
During his time at Texas Tech, Mahomes won the Sammy Baugh Trophy in 2016, which recognizes the nation’s top passer. He also earned All-Big 12 honors and set several school and NCAA records. These achievements helped confirm his status as one of the most electrifying players in college football.
