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Patrick Mahomes has taken to the Chiefs’ under-center offense

The Kansas City Chiefs have quietly reshaped their offensive identity around quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who has fully embraced an under-center approach this season. After joining the team in 2017, Mahomes initially operated within a system designed around his shotgun strengths, but over the past few years, the offense has gradually shifted to incorporate more traditional formations.

This season, the Chiefs have run 121 under-center plays—nearly 24 per game—marking a significant increase from just 11.5 per game in 2025. The transformation aligns with the arrival of running back Kenneth Walker, who leads the NFL in rushing yards (655) and is on pace for over 2,200 yards, while also benefiting from the return of offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.

Head coach Andy Reid confirmed Mahomes’ comfort with the new alignment, noting the quarterback’s enthusiasm for blending under-center looks into the offense. The results have been immediate, with Kansas City leading the league in rushing yards per attempt (5.5) and total yards per game, including a season-high 422-yard output during the bye week.

Even with injuries at wide receiver, the Chiefs’ offensive evolution has maintained its momentum, proving Mahomes’ adaptability beyond his signature shotgun style.

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