It hasn’t been Patrick Mahomes’ best season in the NFL; in fact, 2023 was his worst statistical season by a wide margin in nearly every category across the board.

But with the regular season in the rearview mirror, the NFL Playoffs provide a new opportunity for the most successful franchise and quarterback of the past half-decade. And with that opportunity, Mahomes has a chance to climb the ranks of the best quarterbacks in postseason history.

Patrick Mahomes’ heroic gesture with young fan during Chiefs’ gamePatrick Mahomes chases Tom Brady’s playoff passing touchdown record

Although he’s just 28 years old, Mahomes already ranks 8th all-time in playoff passing touchdowns (35). The only other active player ahead of him is Aaron Rodgers, who sits tied for 2nd (with 45) at 40 years old.

It’s not a given that Mahomes will throw many touchdown passes this postseason, especially when you consider he averaged less than two per game during the regular season. But with three in the first round against the Miami Dolphins, Mahomes would pass Ben Roethlisberger and Drew Brees.

Another round could see him catch up to Peyton Manning, and a deep run could see him threaten Brett Favre, Joe Montana and Rodgers. The one thing we know for sure: he will not be catching Tom Brady this year. Brady has an absurd 88 postseason touchdown passes, nearly doubling up Montana and Rodgers.

Mahomes is theoretically on pace to catch Brady eventually if he avoids injuries and continues to play at a high level as he ages, but it’s a tall task. Playing in 20 different versions of the NFL Playoffs gave Brady a cushion no one else has ever been able to afford for themselves.