Dylan Raiola Seen in Chiefs’ Locker Room with Patrick Mahomes after AFC Championship

The Huskers’ star quarterback was basking in the glory of his friend Patrick Mahomes’ monumental victory.

Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola looks on before the 2024 Pinstripe Bowl. | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

In the jubilant Kansas City Chiefs locker room after their AFC Championship victory Sunday over the Buffalo Bills, one young face stood out among the sea of champions: Dylan Raiola.

The Nebraska quarterback, a close friend and mentee of Patrick Mahomes, soaked in the atmosphere of triumph, surrounded by players celebrating their chance to make history. The Chiefs, after all, are on the verge of becoming the first team in NFL history to win three consecutive Super Bowls.

"That ain't Pat." 😂

Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola was in the Chiefs locker room after their AFC Championship win 😅

(via @isiah_pachecoRB) pic.twitter.com/qmORFMPRfL

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 27, 2025

Raiola’s presence in this moment was suprising, but fitting, given the comparisons that have been drawn between him and Mahomes. From the No. 15 jersey he wears at Nebraska to the trademark haircut and even the pregame routine he’s adopted, Raiola has modeled much of his approach after the NFL MVP.

Raiola, fresh off his first season as Nebraska’s starter, has quickly risen to prominence in college football, with scouts already labeling him a potential future NFL star. His poise, arm strength, and ability to extend plays have drawn natural comparisons to Mahomes.

The Chiefs/ 32-29 victory over the Bills was yet another masterclass from Mahomes, who threw for 245 yards and had three total touchdowns (two rushing, one passing). It is the kind of performance that its easy to envision Raiola having one day for the Huskers.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes celebrates after Sunday's AFC championship game. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

As the Chiefs now prepare for the chance to make NFL history with a third straight Super Bowl title, Raiola’s connection to Mahomes adds another layer of intrigue. The young Nebraska star has often been described as a Mahomes prototype for the next generation, but being in the room with the Chiefs on a night like this has to motivate Raiola heading into his sophomore season..

The sight of championship hats, AFC trophies and confetti should only solidify his resolve. He might be in the locker room as a guest now, but one day, he hopes to stand there as a champion in his own right.

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