Texas Tech Football Quarterback Patrick Mahomes II declared for the NFL Draft Tuesday morning. Now, emotions run high for Red Raider fans across the Hub City.

“We are so proud of Patrick and all that he has done during his time at Texas Tech University,” Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt said. “You won’t find a better ambassador or role model for Texas Tech Athletics and Pat Mahomes has been in the classroom in the community, and obviously on the playing field.”

Hocutt said no other student athlete performed better on or off the field than Mahomes, and is confident those skills will carry to whichever NFL organization he moves forward with.

“He defines what a fearless champion is all about,” Hocutt said. “He is moving forward to pursue his dreams of playing professional football and we couldn’t be prouder of him.”

Texas Tech students describe bittersweet emotions to see a talented player leave, but show enthusiasm for next year’s season.

“It’s sad to see talent leave,” TTU Student Jason Albers said. “But (Coach) Kingsbury, he’s got a good way with quarterbacks so we’ll be in good hands no matter what.”
 
A local business owner also describes Mahomes departure as a loss not only for the team but possibly for the Lubbock economy.
 
“Having a good quakerback makes things more exciting to watch Tech,” Nick’s Sports Bar Owner Nick Muscari said. “But just having a good team in general is good for business. People come out and watch and support the team. But hopefully you have some guys waiting in the wings and we’ll have another good quarterback.”
 
“I think we talk about educating, serving, and growing fearless champions and that is the mission statement of this athletic department but it’s obviously something this community supports,” Hocutt said.