Patrick Mahomes gets top rating in Madden 21

After receiving the biggest contract in sports, Patrick Mahomes has received an honor in Madden.

There are few places as privileged in the world of sports video games as the 99 Club — those deserving of the very highest rating, near perfection in their class. While there is much debate about who should earn the prestigious recognition, most would agree Patrick Mahomes deserves a place in the club.

Adam Schefter has confirmed that is the case.

As Electronic Arts continually reveals details about the upcoming game in its longstanding Madden franchise, Mahomes is the first to join the 99 Club. Comprising the rating is high marks in throw power, short and deep accuracy at 97, 97 and 93, respectively. EA gifted him some pretty impressive merchandise to show for it.

Who was snubbed from this year’s Madden 99 Club?

It isn’t much of a surprise Mahomes is the first to make the list, but he isn’t the only one there either. Some leaks from the game have revealed the entirety of the club. Panthers back Christian McCaffrey, defensive beast Aaron Donald and lockdown corner Stephon Gilmore round out the list.

George Kittle, Michael Thomas and DeAndre Hopkins follow with a 98 rating, leaving us wondering of the whereabouts of the game’s cover athlete, Lamar Jackson. As Jackson is nowhere to be found, why is Mahomes not gracing the cover in the year dominated by him?

Regardless, Madden’s rating system has always seemed like a bit of an arbitrary one, but when it comes to Patrick Mahomes, there is no question he is as good as the league gets. If that’s not deserving of a 99 rating, then who knows what is?