NFL players’ superstitions: Mahomes’ lucky underwear & more

DALLAS (KDAF) — Superstition has always been a big part of sports, and the NFL is no exception. With the 2025/26 season in full swing, players are already practicing their unique good luck rituals. Smiles Casino explored some of the superstitious practices that America’s NFL athletes swear by. 

1. Patrick Mahomes’ lucky red underwear

Patrick Mahomes revealed his unusual pregame superstition in a 2023 interview. According to ESPN, the Texas-born Kansas City Chiefs quarterback wears the same pair of red underwear for every game. Wearing lucky clothing is a long-standing superstition in sport, with tennis legend Serena Williams also known for her own ritual outfits.

2. Travis Kelce’s playoff beard 

Kansas City Chiefs tight end, Travis Kelce, refuses to shave his facial hair until after the Super Bowl, believing itbrings him and his team good luck. The playoff beard is a well-known tradition in sports, symbolizing unity and focus among teammates during high-stakes games.

3. Clelin Ferrell’s trip to the movies

Clelin Ferrell’s pregame ritual is going to the movies. The Washington Commanders defensive end takes the time to sit, relax, and indulge in every snack available the night before an important match. From popcorn to an extra large ICEE, nothing is off the table for this NFL star.

4. John Henderson’s lucky slap

John Henderson, former Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle, took good luck rituals to a whole new level. The ex-NFL star would ask a member of the training staff to slap him in the face. Considering Henderson’s reputation as a legendary player, it seems this ritual did in fact bring him good luck. 

5. Tom Brady’s protection stones 

Retired NFL star Tom Brady used the power of intuition to excel during his games. Before every match, his wife would create an altar with pictures of their three children and protection stones. The retired Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback would also wear a special necklace to encourage luck. 

6. Jake Elliot’s good luck meal

Jake Elliot has had the same pregame meal since college. The night before every game, the Philadelphia Eagles kicker enjoys a slice of pizza and a slice of cheesecake. It might not be healthy, but with almost 200 field goals under his belt, it’s certainly working. 

Elliot’s good luck ritual is shared among many in the NFL. Harrison Smith, safety for the Minnesota Vikings, has a cup of coffee, half of a plain bagel, and a shot of Tabasco, while retired kicker for the Atlanta Falcons, Matt Bryant, enjoys a chocolate milkshake before a game.