Patrick Mahomes’ half-brother makes headlines with invite to Chiefs rookie camp, hopes to impress scouts

The Kansas City Chiefs are no strangers to investing in the Mahomes bloodline. Having built their dynasty around Patrick Mahomes, the franchise may now be opening the door to another family member. Graham Walker, Patrick’s half-brother, has been invited to participate in the team’s rookie minicamp—an opportunity that marks the first step in a possible NFL journey for the former Rice University tight end.

Graham Walker, the biological son of former MLB pitcher Pat Mahomes Sr., has taken a less glamorous but commendable route toward his football dream. Growing up in Vermont and raised by his mother, Jessamyn Walker, and stepfather Gerry Howatt, Walker honed his athleticism at Champlain Valley Union High School before prepping at Avon Old Farms in Connecticut. His collegiate career began at Brown University, where he spent four years earning All-Ivy League honors, racking up 1,496 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns in 27 games.

Ahead of the 2024 season, Walker transferred to Rice, where he transitioned from wide receiver to tight end. In his lone season with the Owls, he recorded 24 receptions for 252 yards, showcasing his versatility in a more physically demanding role. “I like to think that I am a tight end who has the skills of a wide receiver,” Walker shared with Seven Days, highlighting the hybrid athleticism he brings to the table.
Earning an NFL roster spot as an undrafted player is no easy feat. Walker joins a competitive group of tight ends—including Jake Briningstool, Jared Casey, Jake Roberts, and Tre Watson—vying for attention at minicamp. The Chiefs’ depth chart already features established names like Travis Kelce, Noah Gray, and 2024 draft pick Jared Wiley, along with recent signee Robert Tonyan.

Still, Walker has one unique advantage—guidance from his superstar half-brother. “He’s supportive, as he always is,” said Pat Mahomes Sr. in a January 2024 interview with FOX 4 KC. “Hopefully in this offseason Patrick will get a chance to throw the ball to him, run routes, as Patrick always has his receivers come down.”
While the odds may be stacked, Walker’s determination, bloodline, and raw talent could tilt things in his favor. He’s one of 60 rookies trying to earn a spot with the Chiefs, but few will be as closely watched.
Also Read: Baltimore Ravens release Justin Tucker after multiple massage therapists accuse him of misconduct