The Chiefs have picked up Mahomes fifth-year option for 2021 in a much expected move. As NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero explains, it will be used as a placeholder as talks about an extension heat up.
Mahomes is entering his age-25 season, and he has already taken the league by storm. In 2018 he threw for 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns on route to an MVP. And in 2019 he led the Chiefs to their first title in 50 years, winning Super Bowl LIV MVP.
The potential extension could eclipse the $40M-per-year mark and $200M overall, which would make Mahomes the highest-paid player in the league.
As talks heat up for Mahomes, the Chiefs also are trying to work out a long-term deal with DT Chris Jones.