Whenever the Kansas City Chiefs don’t win a Super Bowl, it’s viewed as a failure. Part of that organizational perspective stems from the talent of quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Every year with a generational quarterback but without a ring is an underwhelming outcome. That philosophy is something most Hall of Fame-level players and their teams adopted over time. The prime example before Mahomes was Tom Brady and the New England Patriots (OK, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers).

Mahomes and Brady’s duels are well-documented in NFL history. Brady has always taken a liking to Mahomes, acknowledging his drive and potential. If there was ever a proverbial passing of the torch, it’d be from Brady to Mahomes. The current G.O.A.T. hasn’t shied away from that. On a July 7 episode of “Up & Adams” with Kay Adams, Mahomes opened up about what that friendship and mentorship means to him.

Mahomes, a determined individual by nature, kicks it into overdrive when given such a ringing endorsement.

“Having Tom, a guy like that say that, it just motivates me even more,” Mahomes said. “I’ve actually talked to Tom a good amount this offseason. It’s cool that he wants to give me advice, you know? He doesn’t have to be like that. He’s such a good dude, and I have so much respect for him. I’ll take any advice he gives me.”

When asked for details about that advice, the Chiefs superstar didn’t divulge. He did, however, double down on his goal to be a good teammate and lead by example.

“I’ve got to keep the secrets, you know?” Mahomes said. “He always talks about being yourself. He thinks that – which I truly believe, too – guys can spot when you’re not authentic and you’re not putting in the work. That’s something that he did every single day; that’s why guys respected him so much. That’s all I’m going to do for the rest of my career, and I feel like I’ve done so far is I’m always myself. No matter if you like me or if you don’t like me, you know that I’m giving everything I can to win the football games.”

Brady’s impact on Mahomes is obvious. In a modern NFL world that focuses on high drama and firing back at doubters, the 29-year-old prefers to let his play do the talking. That’s the theme of the Chiefs’ upcoming revenge tour this season. Setting – and maintaining – a solid precedent has a domino effect on the rest of the team.