On February 9, 2025, Jalen Hurts and Patrick Mahomes will make history once more when they meet in Super Bowl LIX. This marks the first time in NFL history that two Black quarterbacks will face off in a Super Bowl rematch, following their groundbreaking showdown in Super Bowl LVII in 2023. With the stakes high, Hurts and Mahomes are not just playing for a championship—they are continuing to reshape the narrative of Black athletes in the NFL.
A Historic First: Black Quarterbacks in a Super Bowl
The 2023 Super Bowl was a landmark event. For the first time ever, two Black quarterbacks, Jalen Hurts and Patrick Mahomes, squared off in the biggest game of the season. Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to a thrilling 38-35 victory over Hurts’ Philadelphia Eagles. Despite the loss, Hurts delivered one of the greatest performances in Super Bowl history, scoring three rushing touchdowns and throwing for 304 yards. His near-perfect game was nearly overshadowed by a controversial penalty that cost him a chance to win the game.
The Rematch: What’s at Stake for Hurts and Mahomes?
Super Bowl LIX is set to be just as monumental as their first meeting. Mahomes, the reigning Super Bowl MVP, is aiming for his fourth Super Bowl title and a ‘three-peat’—a rare feat that would make history. The Chiefs are on track for their fifth Super Bowl appearance in six years, thanks to Mahomes’ consistent leadership. On the other hand, Hurts is seeking redemption after falling short in their first encounter. The 2023 loss still motivates him, with Hurts reportedly keeping a photo from that game on his iPhone wallpaper for inspiration. He is determined to secure his first Lombardi Trophy and make up for the heart-wrenching defeat.
The Rise of Black Quarterbacks in the NFL
The upcoming rematch between Hurts and Mahomes is more than just a football game. It represents a dramatic shift in the NFL’s history and the increasing prominence of Black quarterbacks. In 2024, a record 15 Black quarterbacks started in Week 1 of the NFL season, accounting for nearly half of all starting quarterbacks. This is a remarkable contrast to just a decade ago when only five Black quarterbacks started. The change highlights a shift in both the league’s attitude and the opportunities for Black players in what has long been a position dominated by white athletes.
Black Quarterbacks Leading Playoff Teams in 2024
The 2024 playoffs also saw Black quarterbacks leading more teams than ever before. Seven out of 14 playoff teams, or 50%, were led by Black quarterbacks, including stars like Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens, C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans, and Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders. This marks the highest number of Black quarterbacks in the postseason, breaking last year’s record of six. This growing presence of Black quarterbacks is breaking down long-standing barriers and offering young players new role models to look up to.
What the Future Holds: Changing the NFL Landscape
Hurts and Mahomes are not just talented athletes; they are catalysts for change in the NFL. Their achievements, both on and off the field, have helped shift the perception of Black quarterbacks and open doors for future generations. The upcoming rematch between these two exceptional athletes will continue to inspire young players across the country, proving that with talent and determination, barriers can be overcome.
As the NFL continues to evolve, the prominence of Black quarterbacks like Hurts and Mahomes signals a new era in the league, one where race is no longer a barrier to success. Their journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of representation in sports.
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