KANSAS CITY, MO — The Kansas City Chiefs’ newest wide receiver isn’t wasting time when it comes to backing his quarterback.

In a bold and passionate statement that’s gone viral across social media, rookie wideout Jayden Hunt has come to the defense of Patrick Mahomes, saying the criticism the star quarterback receives is less about performance — and more about personality.

“People don’t hate Patrick because he’s bad at what he does — they hate him because he does it his way,” Hunt told reporters after a recent training camp session. “He’s confident. He’s flashy. He’s unapologetic. And some folks just can’t handle that.”

The comment quickly gained traction, as fans and analysts debated the ongoing narrative surrounding Mahomes, who, despite being a two-time NFL MVP and three-time Super Bowl champion, still receives a surprising amount of criticism from certain corners of the sports world.

Some call his play “reckless.” Others say his confidence borders on cockiness. But for those inside the Chiefs locker room, the story is very different.

“Mahomes puts in the work. He studies harder than anyone I’ve ever seen. He lifts the team when things are down,” Hunt added. “You’d rather go to battle with a guy who believes in himself than one who doesn’t.”

Veteran Chiefs players echoed Hunt’s sentiment. Tight end Travis Kelce, one of Mahomes’ closest teammates, chimed in during an interview on a local Kansas City sports radio show.

“People love to hate greatness — that’s the truth,” Kelce said. “Pat is a generational talent, and he’s doing it in style. Of course, that rubs some people the wrong way.”

The buzz surrounding Hunt’s comments also ignited conversations about how athletes, particularly high-profile quarterbacks, are judged both on and off the field. Mahomes, known for his signature no-look passes, acrobatic throws, and charismatic leadership, has become the face of the modern NFL — and with that comes scrutiny.

Social media lit up following Hunt’s interview, with fans coining hashtags like #UnapologeticMahomes and #HatersFuelChampions. Even ESPN analysts weighed in, with some defending Mahomes’ authenticity and others suggesting that public perception often lags behind performance.

Mahomes, for his part, responded in classic fashion — with calm and class.

“I don’t really focus on the noise,” he said during a post-practice media scrum. “I’ve got a job to do. I’m just being myself — that’s all I’ve ever done.”

As the Chiefs ramp up for the upcoming season, the support from newcomers like Hunt shows that Mahomes isn’t just admired — he’s respected. In a league where egos can clash, the unity forming in Kansas City could be their secret weapon.

“You can talk all you want,” Hunt said with a grin. “But at the end of the day, the rings speak louder than the critics.”

With the fire already lit, Mahomes and the Chiefs look more ready than ever to silence the doubters — again.