Len Dawson, a legend in Kansas City Chiefs history, left an indelible mark on the NFL as one of the franchise’s most iconic figures. A Hall of Fame quarterback, Dawson led the Chiefs to their first-ever Super Bowl victory in 1970, solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer for the team. Over his 14 seasons with Kansas City, he became a seven-time Pro Bowler and twice earned All-Pro honors, famously topping the league in passing touchdowns four times. When Dawson passed away in 2022 at age 87, Patrick Mahomes was one of many who acknowledged the profound impact Dawson had on the team and the city.
Fast forward to Week 13 of the 2024 season, and Mahomes has now etched his name above Dawson’s in the Chiefs’ record books. With a perfectly placed pass to Justin Watson against the Las Vegas Raiders, Mahomes recorded his 238th career touchdown, surpassing Dawson’s franchise record.
Patrick Mahomes gives an energetic speech as the Chiefs prepare to do something no AFC team has done so far
Reflecting on Dawson’s influence, Mahomes once said, “Len kind of set the standard here in Kansas City, and I’m thankful enough to be able to go up there and win one. It’s hard to do. I’m going to try and do my best to get more flags up there and try to win a few more Super Bowls.”
Mahomes overtakes Len Dawson to set new Chiefs TD milestone
Mahomes’ path to the record-breaking moment has been nothing short of extraordinary. Despite playing only one game in his rookie season, Mahomes quickly ascended to greatness, throwing for 50 touchdowns in his first full season in 2018 and earning MVP honors. In just seven and a half seasons as a starter, he’s amassed seasons with 37 or more touchdown passes four times, further demonstrating his dominance.
His Week 13 record-breaking pass not only secured a 10-3 lead for the Chiefs but also highlighted the team’s creativity on offense. The drive featured a thrilling lateral from Travis Kelce to Samaje Perine, converting a critical third down.
While Kelce also chases history-needing one more touchdown to surpass Tony Gonzalez’s franchise record for tight ends-Mahomes continues to redefine what’s possible for a quarterback in Kansas City. He now leads all Chiefs quarterbacks in completions, yards, attempts, and touchdowns, cementing his place as one of the league’s all-time greats.
As the Chiefs pursue another Super Bowl, Mahomes remains committed to Dawson’s legacy of leadership and excellence. “It’s special,” he said, acknowledging the difficulty of sustaining success. But if anyone can carry the torch Dawson lit, it’s Mahomes.
