Pete Beathard

Mahomes operates in a different stratosphere—literally a generational talent reshaping quarterback possibilities. Beathard was a solid backup who threw for 8,176 yards across a decade with four teams, while Mahomes is already cementing Hall of Fame credentials. Think of it this way: Beathard was the guy keeping the seat warm; Mahomes is the guy the franchise builds around for the next 15 years.

No, Beathard never made Canton. He was a journeyman backup who appeared in 10 seasons for the Chiefs, Oilers, Cardinals, and Rams, accumulating respectable but unspectacular numbers—43 touchdowns and a 48.4% completion rate in his Chiefs years. Hall of Fame voters look for sustained excellence, not competent depth.

The search results don't provide current information about Beathard's 2026 activities. Historical records show his playing career ended in the early 1970s, but his present-day work in broadcasting, business, or other ventures isn't documented in available sources.

Modern passing rules would've helped Beathard's volume stats, but they wouldn't transform his ceiling. His 48.4% completion rate and modest arm talent suggest he'd still be a backup in today's NFL. The rules favor precision and athleticism—two areas where he was merely adequate. He'd complete more passes, throw fewer interceptions proportionally, but remain a career reserve.

Dawson lapped him. The Hall of Famer threw for 2,527 yards in 1966 alone while Beathard managed 578 that same season. Dawson was the franchise quarterback; Beathard was the insurance policy. Their rating gap tells the whole story—Dawson was elite, Beathard was competent.