Patrick Mahomes Fuels His Passion for Coffee – But Isn’t Brewing Excitement Over 18-Game NFL Season

Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and three-time Super Bowl champion, is not just making headlines on the football field; he’s also carving out a niche for himself in the business world. Recently, Mahomes added “coffee entrepreneur” to his impressive resume by investing in Throne Sport Coffee, a brand that aligns perfectly with his passion for health and wellness. As the NFL gears up for another season, Mahomes took some time to discuss his foray into the coffee industry, his investment strategies, and his thoughts on the future of the league.

A Passion for Coffee

Mahomes’ love affair with coffee began during his rookie year in the NFL. “I was in a lot of meetings, and coffee became a functional need,” he explained. Initially, it was about staying alert during long discussions, but soon, he developed a genuine appreciation for the beverage, particularly black coffee. This newfound passion led him to explore healthier coffee options, which is where Throne Sport Coffee entered the picture.

Founded by Mike Fedele, a veteran in the beverage industry, Throne Sport Coffee offers a ready-to-drink coffee that boasts 10 grams of protein and 40% less sugar than its competitors. With only 50 calories and 1 gram of sugar per serving, it’s a healthier alternative in a crowded market. For Mahomes, the appeal was clear. “I really fell in love with just the taste and trying to make sure that what I was putting into my body was good,” he said.

Fedele, who has collaborated with major brands like Coca-Cola and BodyArmor, recognized a gap in the market for health-conscious coffee drinkers. “Given how frequently people that care about what they’re putting into their bodies consume coffee, I felt there needed to be a better for you option,” he stated. This philosophy resonated with Mahomes, who now serves as both an investor and the brand’s lead spokesperson.

Daily Coffee Routine

Mahomes’ daily coffee routine consists of three cups: one when he wakes up, another before meetings, and a third in preparation for afternoon practices. While he admits, “It’s probably too much,” he appreciates that Throne Sport Coffee allows him to indulge without the guilt of consuming excess sugar or unhealthy ingredients. On game days, he scales back to just one or two cups, focusing on maintaining his energy levels without compromising his performance.

The ready-to-drink coffee market is booming, with Americans spending $17.7 billion in 2023 alone, according to Technomic. Despite the growth potential, Throne faces stiff competition from established coffee brands, including Starbucks, which recently announced plans to expand its ready-to-drink offerings. However, Mahomes remains optimistic about Throne’s unique position in the market.

Expanding Investment Portfolio

Throne Sport Coffee is just one of many investments in Mahomes’ burgeoning portfolio. He also holds minority stakes in several sports franchises, including MLB’s Kansas City Royals, MLS’s Sporting Kansas City, and NWSL’s KC Current, along with a stake in Alpine F1. “I love sports. I love how they bring people together: families, communities. That’s what I want to invest in,” he shared.

When asked if he envisions a future ownership stake in the Chiefs, Mahomes responded, “That would be cool. Hopefully a long time from now, but yeah, I’d love to be a part of the team after I’m done playing. They’ve done so much for me.” This statement reflects his deep connection to the franchise and his desire to contribute to its legacy even after his playing days are over.

Stadium Politics and Future Decisions

As the Chiefs navigate their future stadium options, the decision looms over whether to renovate Arrowhead Stadium or build a new facility in Kansas. While Mahomes didn’t reveal his preference, he acknowledged the significance of Arrowhead. “Arrowhead is special. You feel the history. But wherever we play, the fans will show up,” he remarked.

The Chiefs were recently granted a one-year extension to decide on their stadium future, and the outcome will likely have lasting implications for the franchise. Mahomes understands the importance of this decision, not just for the team but for the community that supports it.

Concerns About the NFL’s Future

On broader league issues, Mahomes expressed caution regarding proposals for an 18-game NFL season and the push for international expansion, including the Chiefs’ upcoming Week 1 game in Brazil. “More games are tough on the body,” he stated. “If we’re going to go to 18, we need more bye weeks. Same with international games, planning matters.”

His concerns highlight the physical demands placed on players in an already grueling season. Mahomes, who has experienced his fair share of injuries, understands the need for balance between entertainment and player health. As the NFL continues to explore new avenues for growth, Mahomes’ perspective as a player and a businessperson will undoubtedly influence discussions around these changes.

Balancing Life and Business

Despite his busy schedule as an NFL quarterback, Mahomes has managed to balance his athletic career with his entrepreneurial ventures. His passion for coffee and commitment to health have driven him to explore new opportunities while still excelling on the field. “It’s all about finding that balance,” he said, reflecting on his dual roles as a player and a businessman.

As the upcoming NFL season approaches, Mahomes is focused on leading the Chiefs to another championship while simultaneously nurturing his investments. His ability to juggle these responsibilities speaks to his dedication and work ethic, qualities that have made him a standout athlete and a respected figure in the business world.

Conclusion

Patrick Mahomes is more than just a football superstar; he is a burgeoning entrepreneur with a keen eye for investment opportunities. His recent venture into the coffee industry with Throne Sport Coffee showcases his commitment to health and wellness, while his diverse investment portfolio reflects his passion for sports and community. As he navigates the complexities of both the NFL and the business world, Mahomes continues to inspire others with his drive, ambition, and dedication to making a positive impact both on and off the field. With his sights set on the future, there’s no telling what this remarkable athlete will achieve next.