Mahomes in conversations with Goodell noted he wants to draw attention to voter registration effortsGETTY IMAGES
One thing about the NFL's future "seems rock solid: It will center on PATRICK MAHOMES," who is "already the face the league," according to a cover story by Clay Skipper of GQ. Merchandise bearing the Chiefs QB's name or likeness, including "everything from jerseys to trading cards to bobbleheads," outsold all other players last season. Additionally, Mahomes last month was among a number of Black NFL stars who appeared in a "powerful 71-second video, calling on their employer to condemn racism." NFL Commissioner ROGER GOODELL less than a day later "filmed a clip of his own." A "key factor" in Goodell's quick response was Mahomes' participation. Mahomes said, "I understand my platform. I understand that my part in the video is a big part of it." Skipper notes Mahomes has talked to many constituents about racial inequality and social justice issues, including family members, other players, Goodell and Chiefs Chair & CEO CLARK HUNT. Those conversations "left him feeling optimistic, particularly his discussions with Hunt and Goodell." Mahomes said that during his chat with Goodell, the commissioner was "curious about the young quarterback's perspective and about what he wanted to see and do going forward." Mahomes explained that he "wants to draw attention to voter-registration efforts." He also talked with Goodell about NFL teams "hiring personnel tasked with helping players become more useful activists in their communities." Skipper writes the fact that Goodell would seek Mahomes' counsel is "indicative of just how enormous an influence Mahomes wields" (GQ, 8/ '20 issue).
