Patrick Mahomes reached out in a quiet but meaningful way to Tucker Franklin after the Kansas City podcaster announced the death of his father.
Franklin, who hosts the That Football Show podcast on the KC Sports Network, posted the news on X last week and included a tribute to his dad, Doug Franklin. In his message, Franklin wrote, “My dad, Doug Franklin, suddenly and unexpectedly passed away,” and described him as “a great father, phenomenal husband, and an amazing man.”
He added that his father “was the only thing he loved more than the Kansas City Royals” besides his family, and said, “It’s easy in times like these to be upset by all the things you didn’t get to experience. I’m crushed and devastated.”
Franklin continued: “Life is not fair but in these unfair moments, I’m choosing to be thankful for the 28 years I had with a man I was honored to call my father. Though, it should’ve been more.
“Thank you, Dad.”
Among those who saw the post was Mahomes, who sent Franklin a direct message on X last Monday. In the note, Mahomes wrote, “Praying for your family man,” and added, “Chiefs and chiefskingdom is with you. 🙏”
Franklin later shared a screenshot of the message and responded, “I think it’s easy to wonder if the quarterback of your favorite team is actually a good guy.
“We don’t have to wonder about that in KC ❤️”
The gesture was a small one, but for Franklin, it clearly meant a great deal.
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