Patrick Mahomes reveals Kansas City Chiefs' own "John Cena"
The NFL shared a clip on X on Monday featuring star quarterback Patrick Mahomes addressing the media after the Kansas City Chiefs' 16-14 win over the Denver Broncos on Sunday. During the interview, Mahomes commented on his teammate, Leo Chenal, humorously calling him the team’s “John Cena.”
"Leo Chenal's FG block is a crazy way to find out he's nicknamed John Cena,” the tweet said.
On Sunday, Cenal's block of Will Lutz's 35-yard field-goal try as time expired preserved the Chiefs' victory.
“He’s extremely strong," Mahomes said in the clip. "I mean, he’s got the strength of a D-lineman but plays the linebacker position. I mean, you don’t want to be that guy when he’s working out. We call him John Cena.”
Leo Chenal compared to John Cena in strength
Leo Chenal has been recognized for his impressive strength since his NFL combine debut in 2020, where he nearly broke the bench press record, managing 34 reps of 225 pounds.
Reportedly, he could do around 40 reps without formal training during his time with the Wisconsin Badgers.
“He trains well," former Wisconsin teammate Matt Henningsen said. "He works hard.”
Known for his strength, WWE legend John Cena has lifted giants like Big Show, Big Daddy V and Great Khali and claims to bench press 465 pounds.
Leo Chenal saves the day for the Chiefs
Leo Chenal saved the Chiefs’ winning streak on the game’s last play. With the score at 16-14, the Broncos attempted a field goal, but Chenal blocked kicker Wil Lutz's kick, securing the Chiefs’ victory. The 6-foot-3 linebacker timed his rush perfectly and also recorded four tackles.
Thanks to Chenal’s play, the defending Super Bowl champions extended their unbeaten streak to 9-0. This was their second close game in consecutive weeks following a 30-24 overtime win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Mahomes had a quiet performance, with only one touchdown in the low-scoring game, but praised Chenal’s physicality, likening him to WWE’s John Cena.
“Leo steps up and does what Leo does every week. … Somewhere, he steps up and makes a play,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said.
The Chiefs will visit the Buffalo Bills next on Sunday.