Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Patrick Mahomes' Postgame Interaction With C.J. Stroud Draws Attention

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit K. | Last updated Dec 8, 2025 1:47 AM ET

Following the Houston Texans’ 20-10 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium, a brief but meaningful moment between quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and C.J. Stroud quickly became one of the night’s most talked-about scenes.

As players cleared the field, Stroud and Mahomes spotted each other, walked toward one another, shared a handshake, a hug, and a few quiet words before walking away. The exchange showed the respect between two franchise leaders who battled through a physically demanding matchup.

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Stroud, who finished with 203 yards and a touchdown on 15-of-31 passing, credited Houston’s defense for setting the tone.

“I thought our defense did a great job sticking in coverage, and relentlessly rushing,” he said. “An amazing job.”

His efficient early-game production saw completions of 46 and 53 yards and a touchdown strike to Woody Marks. It helped Houston build a 10-0 halftime lead and ultimately secure its fifth straight win, improving to 8-5.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) greet each other after the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Mahomes, meanwhile, endured one of the toughest outings of his career. He completed just 14 of 33 attempts for 160 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions. Still, he added 59 rushing yards on the ground. Drops from his receivers and a battered offensive line compounded the difficulties.

“You're getting late in the season. You're not going to get these opportunities back,” Mahomes reflected. “We had chances, and we didn't execute at the right time to win it.”

Now 6-7, the Chiefs face a steep climb to keep their postseason hopes alive. Yet Mahomes’ postgame embrace with Stroud shows sportsmanship and mutual respect despite a frustrating NFL season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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