Chiefs superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes turned 29 last month, and it’s safe to say a lot has changed in his life over the last few years.
But among the things that have remained the same is his ongoing work with Bobby Stroupe, who has been his personal trainer since Mahomes was 9 years old … and who even moved from Texas to Kansas City to extend the commitment.
“His voice is in my ear at all times,” Mahomes said with a smile this week, later adding, “He doesn’t let the little things slide.”
In conjunction with Throne Sport Coffee, Stroupe held a training session on Friday at Homefield in Olathe. He was happy to share with The Star what he’s been saying in Mahomes’ ear lately as the 5-0 Chiefs prepare to play the 3-3 San Francisco 49ers on Sunday in Santa Clara, California.
Among Stroupe’s suggestions to Mahomes during the bye week was focusing on a “technical model” for throwing that “he knows that he needs to keep himself a little more accountable to, right?”
Added Stroupe, who also has trained Bobby Witt Jr. of the Royals: “Footwork is a generic thing to say, but the way that Patrick moves is very unique … and he’s got to get back to the base of who he is. …
“It’s not like he’s far off.”
For that matter, Stroupe said Mahomes’ general movement has been great. Stroupe also commended Mahomes for his resilience and weight, which had been up some after a summer trip to Italy.
“There was hell to pay,” Stroupe said, “and he paid it in full.”
Overall, the trainer said, Mahomes’ “physicality is in a good place, but I think that there’s always an opportunity for Patrick to improve. …
“(And) I think this is the perfect spot: If you can win and not play your best, you’ve got a great opportunity (to get better). And that’s where he’s at.”
With a familiar voice to remind him.
