Patrick Mahomes wanted security, flexibility in historic deal with Chiefs

Patrick Mahomes signed the richest deal in North American sports history this week, but it came as no surprise after his last two fantastic seasons. 

The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback discussed his new deal on Tuesday, and noted he had two goals for his contract extension. 

"Not only does it give me the security that I've always wanted but also it allows an opportunity for the team to be great around me the entire duration of my career,'' Mahomes said, according to ESPN's Adam Teicher. "I have full trust things will be handled the right way as we go throughout this career and that we will be in a position to win a lot of football games and hopefully win a lot more championships as my career goes on.

"It's an exciting time. I'm just glad that I get to continue to build this legacy in Kansas City.''

The 10-year extension comes with the ability for Mahomes to earn up to $503 million, and it'll keep him in Kansas City through the 2031 season. 

Mahomes said he leaned on his father and godfather, both of whom pitched in Major League Baseball, throughout the negotiation process. He also discussed things with head coach Andy Reid. 

While Mahomes can't be certain the Chiefs will build a winning franchise around him for the next 12 years, he certainly seems confident that the franchise will have no problem being successful. 

Kansas City kept much of their 2019 team intact, and very well could repeat as Super Bowl champions in 2020. The offense, specifically, will still be potent. The Chiefs still have Travis Kelce, Damien Williams, Tyreek Hill and Sammy Watkins, while also adding a talented running back in Clyde Edwards-Helaire via the draft. In a division that consists of the Los Angeles Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders and Denver Broncos, K.C. are certainly front-runners to win the AFC West.

The Chiefs, who traded up to land Mahomes, made the decision to sit him as a rookie. That ended up paying off, though, as he easily carved through defenses in 2018 and joined Tom Brady and Peyton Manning in the 50-touchdown passes club.

Mahomes' playoff performance last season likely helped cement his extension with the Chiefs. The 24-year-old orchestrated three come-from-behind playoff victories to lift Kansas City to their first Super Bowl title in 50 years.