Chiefs Backup QB Minshew Avoids ACL Tear, Bone Bruise Confirmed

NFL fans react to the good news for the Chiefs' quarterback situation.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 1:07pm

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Kansas City Chiefs backup quarterback Gardner Minshew did not suffer an ACL tear as initially feared, but rather a bone bruise that did not require surgery, according to NFL insider Adam Schefter. Minshew is now back to full strength as he prepares to enter free agency.

Why it matters

This is good news for Minshew, who can now enter free agency without the stigma of a major knee injury. It also provides some relief for the Chiefs, who had already lost starting QB Patrick Mahomes to an ACL tear earlier in the season.

The details

After Minshew went down with a knee injury, initial reports indicated he had suffered an ACL tear. However, further testing revealed it was actually a bone bruise that did not require surgery. Minshew has now recovered fully and is preparing to hit the free agent market.

  • On January 28, 2026, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Minshew did not tear his ACL as initially feared.

The players

Gardner Minshew

The Kansas City Chiefs' backup quarterback who avoided a serious knee injury.

Patrick Mahomes

The Chiefs' starting quarterback who suffered an ACL tear earlier in the season.

Adam Schefter

ESPN's senior NFL insider who reported the news about Minshew's injury.

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What’s next

Minshew is set to become a free agent this offseason, and it remains to be seen if he will return to the Chiefs or sign with another team.

The takeaway

This news provides a positive update for Minshew, who can now enter free agency without the stigma of a major knee injury. It also gives the Chiefs some relief after losing their starting QB earlier in the season.