Patrick Mahomes flattered to see Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola emulating his pregame routine: ‘It’s cool, honestly’

Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola makes no secrets that he idolizes Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes. He wears the identical No. 15, dons a similar haircut and even copied Mahomes’ signature pregame celebration before the game against Colorado. 

Mahomes spoke about Raiola’s imitation during his media availability this week. By all accounts, Mahomes is flattered by the attention. 

“It’s cool, honestly,” Mahomes said. “I was that guy, grew up watching players. I loved Alex Rodriguez, played shortstop and would try to make plays just like that. It helped me become the athlete that I am. It’s just telling me that I’m getting a little old.”

Mahomes revealed that he trained with Raiola over the offseason and got to know him. The son of former Detroit Lions offensive lineman Dominic Raiola, Dylan decided to follow his father’s path to Nebraska. He became the top quarterback recruit in program history when he committed. 

In his first two starts, Raiola has completed 73.7% of his passes for 423 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. The Cornhuskers are 2-0 and Mahomes has referred to Raiola on Twitter as his little cousin. 

“He’s a great football player and I think he’s going to make his own stamp on the game,” Mahomes said. “I think you’ve seen that early in his career.”