The third consecutive offseason features the Kansas City Chiefs signing a new backup quarterback for Patrick Mahomes.
According to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew reached a one-year deal with Kansas City on Thursday. The deal was announced hours after the Raiders released Minshew with a failed physical designation due to suffering a fractured collarbone during the Week 12 loss to the Denver Broncos. The injury ended his 2024 season, and the decision indicated that Minshew’s collarbone may not have healed.
Minshew played in 10 games and made nine starts for the Raiders in 2024, finishing with a completion percentage of 66.3 for 2,013 yards, nine touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Las Vegas finished the season 4-13 and in last place in the AFC West, as coaching changes and front office moves were made this offseason.
The Chiefs had Carson Wentz as the backup last season. He played briefly during the regular season, with his most significant time on the field occurring in the meaningless Week 18 loss to the Broncos. Wentz was praised often by head coach Andy Reid and Mahomes for his professionalism and veteran leadership.
Minshew will be an intriguing signing if he can stay healthy, provide support in the locker room and scout team, and maintain a confident presence if needed to play in relief for Mahomes in 2025.