Patrick Mahomes finds an unexpected spotlight moment with Jeffrey Bassa amidst a tough Chiefs season

The 2025 NFL season ended far from how the Kansas City Chiefs imagined it would, which included Patrick Mahomes’ unexpected exit due to his knee injury. For a team built around championships and a consistent track record, the year proved to be a debacle with each match. Without Mahomes’ contribution, someone as great as Travis struggled to bring the game to their advantage.

Mahomes spent part of the postseason rooting for his alma mater, Texas Tech, as they chased a spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals. The run ended abruptly with a shutout loss to Oregon, a result that stung both personally and publicly for the QB. Not long after, Chiefs rookie Jeffrey Bassa shared a humorous video where the QB was seen wearing a Ducks jersey

A lost bet, a Ducks jersey, and a reminder of football’s lighter side

The clip showed Mahomes wearing an Oregon Ducks jersey. This particular jersey belonged to Bassa himself, Oregon’s No. 2, and the moment caught the attention of fans across social media. It was a rare glimpse of the QB embracing some playful embarrassment after being sidelined from recent Chiefs games.


At Oregon, Bassa built a reputation as a versatile defender, starting his college career as a safety before moving to being a linebacker. He handled multiple roles and was a steady presence on defense. However, that success has not fully translated to the NFL yet. Through his rookie season, Bassa has seen limited defensive snaps and has mainly contributed on special teams.

While Mahomes is not playing as the Chiefs close the season in Las Vegas, his focus has shifted fully to rehabilitation. Since undergoing surgery on his left knee to repair torn ACL and LCL injuries, he has remained in Kansas City, staying involved with his teammates and coaches.

Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy addressed the situation this week, acknowledging the uncertainty but expressing confidence about his recovery, saying. “Obviously, the question is going to be Pat with his knee. And, again, I never would want to put any type of timeline on him, but I know him way too well…” He expects everyone to let bygones be bygones and step up to be their best self when they face the Raiders on Sunday.

Also read: Patrick Mahomes’ injury recovery takes powerful turn as teen fighting rare disease steps up to inspire him