Chiefs Backup QB Options Without Gardner Minshew Look Bleak

Patrick Mahomes is the star, but the Chiefs' backup QB situation is a major concern.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Kansas City Chiefs have had a revolving door at backup quarterback ever since Chad Henne retired after their Super Bowl win in 2023. With Gardner Minshew now signing with the Cardinals, the Chiefs are once again in the market for a new QB2 to sit behind star Patrick Mahomes.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' backup QB situation is crucial, as Mahomes has dealt with injuries in the past and the team needs a capable QB who can step in if needed. Finding a reliable and competent backup has been an ongoing challenge for the Chiefs in recent years.

The details

The Chiefs have cycled through Blaine Gabbert, Carson Wentz, and Gardner Minshew as Mahomes' backups since Henne's retirement. However, none of those options have provided much confidence that they could effectively run the Chiefs' high-powered offense if called upon.

  • Chad Henne retired following the Chiefs' Super Bowl win over the Eagles in 2023.

The players

Patrick Mahomes

The Chiefs' star starting quarterback and one of the best QBs in the NFL.

Gardner Minshew

The former Chiefs backup quarterback who has now signed with the Cardinals.

Chad Henne

The Chiefs' former backup quarterback who retired after their Super Bowl win in 2023.

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What’s next

The Chiefs will need to find a new backup quarterback through free agency or the draft to provide depth and insurance behind Mahomes.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' inability to find a reliable and competent backup quarterback has been an ongoing issue, and it remains a major concern heading into the 2026 season with Minshew now gone.