Kansas City Chiefs fans reacted negatively to comments made by Troy Aikman during Monday Night Football, specifically regarding a potential holding penalty during a Patrick Mahomes touchdown run. Fans accused Aikman of bias and a perceived dislike for Mahomes and the Chiefs.
The controversy stemmed from a 15-yard touchdown run by Mahomes in the first half of the Chiefs’ Week 1 matchup against the Denver Broncos. Aikman pointed out that Travis Kelce “might have gotten away with a hold” as he blocked Broncos safety Talanoa Hufanga. Aikman stated, “Travis Kelce might have gotten away with a hold, but Patrick Mahomes, he does not protect himself as he thought he might. He takes it into the end zone. But here's a look at what looked to be a hold by Travis Kelce at the end of that play.”
ESPN rules analyst Russell Yurk agreed with Aikman’s assessment, explaining, “Yeah, Troy, I agree with you. You could see Travis puts his left arm out and restricts over the chest of the defender trying to make the tackle. That prevents him from really being able to get there. I think it's tough for the officials to see, but it is a hold.”
Chiefs fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their displeasure with Aikman’s commentary. One fan wrote, “Man, Aikman HATES seeing Mahomes get an easy TD. Saltier than the Dead Sea.” Another stated, “You can tell it absolutely kills Aikman to even try and give any Chiefs player a compliment. Get him off my TV.”
Criticism also focused on Aikman’s broadcasting style, with one fan claiming he “sucks” and “fits right in with ESPN,” accusing him of being “jealous of Mahomes.” Another accused Aikman of “refbaiting” during the broadcast, stating, “Troy Aikman hates Mahomes so much already refbaiting on the broadcast.”
Some fans referenced a past exchange between Aikman and Mahomes, recalling Aikman’s 2019 comment, “Talk to me when he has 33% of my Super Bowl Titles.” Aikman won three Super Bowl titles with the Dallas Cowboys, a fact some fans believe influences his commentary on Mahomes’ accomplishments.
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