The 2017 NFL Draft was a defining moment for the Kansas City Chiefs—a moment that would shape their franchise’s future for decades. When the Chiefs traded up to the 10th overall pick to draft a relatively unknown quarterback from Texas Tech, Patrick Mahomes, over a proven college champion in Deshaun Watson, analysts and fans alike questioned the decision.

Fast-forward to 2025, and the gamble has more than paid off. Mahomes has led the Chiefs to multiple Super Bowl victories, rewritten the record books, and established himself as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. This article takes a deep dive into how Kansas City’s draft decision redefined their franchise, how Mahomes silenced the doubters, and why this move stands as one of the greatest draft choices in NFL history.

The 2017 NFL Draft: A Controversial Decision

Heading into the 2017 NFL Draft, two quarterbacks stood out as safe, proven, and NFL-ready talents—Clemson’s Deshaun Watson and North Carolina’s Mitchell Trubisky. Watson had just led Clemson to a national championship, showcasing poise, leadership, and an ability to perform in clutch moments. Meanwhile, Trubisky was projected as the best pocket passer in the class.

Then there was Patrick Mahomes, a gunslinger from Texas Tech, known for his raw talent, big arm, and unconventional playing style. However, many scouts saw him as a high-risk, high-reward project. His numbers in college were staggering—5,052 passing yards and 41 touchdowns in his final season—but some doubted whether his improvisational, backyard football style would translate to the NFL.

The Chicago Bears took Trubisky with the second overall pick, a decision that would later haunt them. Meanwhile, the Chiefs, sitting at the 27th pick, had their eyes locked on Mahomes. In a bold move, Kansas City traded up to the 10th pick with the Buffalo Bills, sacrificing future picks to land their guy.

The immediate reaction? Skepticism.

Analysts and Fans Question the Move

The Mahomes pick was met with doubt and criticism. Many questioned why the Chiefs passed on Deshaun Watson, a more established college quarterback with a championship pedigree.

NFL analyst Shannon Sharpe was one of the skeptics, openly wondering whether Mahomes was worth the investment over Watson. Other critics pointed to Texas Tech’s offensive system, suggesting that Mahomes’ gaudy college stats wouldn’t translate to the NFL’s faster, more complex defenses.

Even some Chiefs fans weren’t fully convinced. At the time, Kansas City already had a solid starting quarterback in Alex Smith, who had led the team to playoff appearances. Many believed they should have focused on other positional needs rather than a “developmental quarterback.”.

Andy Reid’s Vision: Seeing What Others Didn’t

One person who never doubted the decision was Andy Reid. The Chiefs’ head coach, known for his ability to develop quarterbacks, saw something special in Mahomes.

Reid, along with then-GM Brett Veach, believed Mahomes had generational talent—something bigger than just stats or mechanics. They saw his rare ability to extend plays, throw from any arm angle, and make impossible throws look easy.

The Sit-and-Wait Approach

Instead of throwing Mahomes into the fire immediately, the Chiefs took a patient approach. Mahomes spent his rookie season on the bench, learning behind veteran Alex Smith, who mentored him and helped him understand the game at an NFL level.

While Watson was thrown into the starting lineup as a rookie for the Texans and played well, Mahomes waited for his moment. That moment came in 2018, when the Chiefs traded Alex Smith to Washington, handing the keys of the franchise to Mahomes.

Mahomes’ Meteoric Rise: From Unknown to MVP

When Mahomes finally took over as Kansas City’s starter in 2018, he didn’t just meet expectations—he shattered them.

2018 Season: A Record-Breaking MVP Year

5,097 passing yards
50 touchdown passes
League MVP at 23 years old

Mahomes became only the second player in NFL history (after Peyton Manning) to throw for 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns in a season. He revolutionized the quarterback position, using no-look passes, off-platform throws, and an uncanny ability to make magic happen under pressure.

Super Bowl LIV: Chiefs End a 50-Year Drought

In just his second full season as a starter, Mahomes led the Chiefs to Super Bowl LIV against the San Francisco 49ers.

Down 20-10 in the fourth quarter, Mahomes orchestrated a legendary comeback, leading Kansas City to a 31-20 victory and earning Super Bowl MVP honors.

From a risky draft pick to a Super Bowl champion in just three seasons, Mahomes had silenced every critic.

The Watson vs. Mahomes Debate: Different Career Paths

While Mahomes was rewriting record books, Deshaun Watson’s career took a very different path.

Early Success with Houston

Watson had an impressive start to his career with the Houston Texans, making multiple Pro Bowl appearances and leading the team to the playoffs. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs made him a rising star.

Off-Field Controversies and Career Disruptions

However, Watson’s career was derailed by off-field issues. Allegations of sexual misconduct led to legal battles, suspensions, and a trade to the Cleveland Browns. His once-promising career took a backseat to controversy and uncertainty.

Contrast in Franchise Stability

One of the biggest reasons for Mahomes’ success compared to Watson’s struggles is organizational stability.

Mahomes landed in a perfect system—a brilliant coach (Andy Reid), elite weapons (Travis Kelce, Tyreek Hill), and a stable front office.
Watson, on the other hand, dealt with dysfunction in Houston—coaching changes, questionable front office decisions, and lack of a consistent supporting cast.

Mahomes was set up for success, while Watson had to overcome obstacles both on and off the field.

The Chiefs’ Dynasty: How Mahomes Transformed Kansas City

Since drafting Mahomes, the Chiefs have become the NFL’s most dominant team:

Super Bowl LIV Champions (2019 Season)
Super Bowl LVII Champions (2022 Season)
Super Bowl LVIII Champions (2023 Season)
Multiple AFC Championship appearances
Record-breaking contract: 10-year, $450 million deal

Mahomes is no longer just a great quarterback—he’s the face of the NFL.

What If the Chiefs Had Drafted Watson Instead?

It’s hard to imagine now, but what if the Chiefs had taken Watson instead of Mahomes?

Would they have still won Super Bowls? Possibly.
Would Watson have thrived under Andy Reid’s coaching? Maybe.
But would he have been as transformational as Mahomes? Highly unlikely.

Mahomes is one of one—his arm talent, leadership, and ability to elevate his team make him truly special.

Final Verdict: The Best Draft Decision in NFL History?

Looking back, the Chiefs’ gamble on Mahomes was not just the right decision—it was one of the best draft picks in NFL history.

They took a chance when others doubted.
They developed him the right way.
And now they’re reaping the rewards of a dynasty.

Mahomes wasn’t just a great pick—he was a franchise-altering decision that changed the course of NFL history.