Called a “Crash Dummy,” DeShon Elliott Challenges Patrick Mahomes to Hand Over His Cracked Helmet

Helmets are the last line of defense for NFL players against the punishing hits that define professional football. Despite ongoing advancements in helmet technology, the game’s physicality still leads to cracks, breaks, and the occasional unforgettable collision. One such moment occurred during the 2023-24 Wild Card round between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins—a play that left Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes with a shattered helmet and Dolphins safety DeShon Elliott with a story he won’t soon forget.

The Collision That Cracked Mahomes’ Helmet

Late in the playoff showdown, Mahomes found himself scrambling out of the pocket with the first-down marker and the goal line in sight. Rather than opting for the safer route and sliding, Mahomes chose to lower his shoulder and take on a direct hit. Waiting for him was DeShon Elliott, known for his hard-hitting style. The two collided head-to-head, and the force of the impact sent a chunk of Mahomes’ helmet flying.

Remarkably, Mahomes continued to play with the cracked helmet, seemingly unfazed by the damage. While teammates looked on in disbelief, Mahomes stuck with his broken gear, later revealing that his backup helmet was sitting outside in the freezing Kansas City night, with Arrowhead Stadium temperatures plunging below -4°F. For Mahomes, enduring a cracked helmet was preferable to donning a frozen one.

Elliott’s “Crash Dummy” Reputation and the Memento He Wants

DeShon Elliott has long been labeled a “crash dummy” for his aggressive, sometimes reckless play. Over the years, he’s worked to shed that reputation, focusing on safer, more controlled hits to prolong his career. Still, the collision with Mahomes stands out as a testament to his impact on the field.

Elliott sees Mahomes’ broken helmet as more than just a piece of damaged equipment—it’s a badge of honor, a tangible reminder of the kind of force he brings to the game. He’s even expressed interest in owning the cracked helmet as a keepsake:

“I have always been perceived as a crash dummy, a little bit. I have toned it down as I have gotten older. Gotten better with it, more safe with my body, so I can extend my career. I still knock somebody if I have to, legally. I have that picture, actually. I want that helmet that Patrick has. I wonder if he still has it. I’m going to ask him if he still has it. I kind of want it.”

For Elliott, the helmet would serve as a unique trophy—proof of a play that left its mark on one of the league’s brightest stars.

The Bigger Picture: Mahomes’ Playing Style and Chiefs’ Challenges

Mahomes’ willingness to absorb big hits is part of what makes him special, but it also exposes him to unnecessary risk. Sliding instead of fighting for every extra yard could help preserve both his health and his helmet. Yet, the issue isn’t solely on Mahomes. The Chiefs’ offensive line and running game have struggled at times, forcing Mahomes to scramble and improvise more often than he should. Better protection and a reliable ground attack could reduce the need for such risky plays.

Conclusion

The story of Patrick Mahomes’ cracked helmet and DeShon Elliott’s desire to claim it as a memento is a snapshot of the NFL’s relentless physicality and the personalities that drive the game. For Mahomes, it’s a reminder of the risks inherent in his fearless approach. For Elliott, it’s a symbol of the impact he can deliver—legally and memorably. As both players move forward, the play serves as a lesson in the balance between toughness and self-preservation, and a reminder of the moments that make football unforgettable.