The Kansas City Chiefs had an important decision to make this offseason regarding their backup quarterback role. With Carson Wentz playing on a one-year deal this past season, he hit free agency, leaving the Chiefs with a choice to make.
On Thursday afternoon, they made their move. Instead of re-signing Wentz to back up Patrick Mahomes, general manager Brett Veach opted to bring in former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
“Sources: Free-agent QB Gardner Minshew reached agreement today on a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs,” Schefter wrote. “A new backup for Patrick Mahomes.”
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15).
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Fans were quick to share their reactions to Kansas City’s signing.
“This is all I needed to see to confirm that the Chiefs indeed will win another Super Bowl next year,” one fan said.
“Nice move by the Chiefs, Minshew is a solid backup for Mahomes,” another wrote.
“He’ll be a better backup than Wentz,” added another. “Minshew Mania coming to KC.”
“One of the best backups to have,” one said.
“Gardner Ring chasing now,” wrote another.
“Minshew magic coming to KC!” a fan added.
Former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew (15).
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Raiders officially released Minshew on Wednesday after they informed him of the decision on March 5.
The 27-year-old quarterback was selected in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he spent two seasons before moving on to the Philadelphia Eagles for another two. He then had a one-year stint with the Indianapolis Colts before joining the Raiders this past season.
Over his career, Minshew has played in 59 games, starting 46 of them. The 6-foot-1, 225-pound quarterback has totaled 11,950 passing yards, 68 touchdowns, and 34 interceptions.
