Chiefs Backup QB Justin Fields Praised by Andy Reid

Reid expresses confidence in Fields as potential starter if Patrick Mahomes needs more time to recover from injury

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:51pm

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Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has given a strong vote of confidence to veteran quarterback Justin Fields as a potential starter for the 2026 season, in case Patrick Mahomes needs more time to recover from his recent torn ACL injury. Reid confirmed that Mahomes is making great progress, spending up to seven hours a day in rehabilitation, but the team acquired Fields as an insurance policy to be prepared to win games even if Mahomes is not ready for the season opener.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' decision to trade for Justin Fields as a backup quarterback demonstrates their commitment to having a legitimate starter-caliber player ready to step in if Mahomes is not fully recovered in time for the 2026 season. This move provides the team with insurance and flexibility as Mahomes continues his rehabilitation.

The details

The Chiefs traded a 2027 sixth-round pick to the New York Jets to bring in the veteran quarterback Justin Fields. During his 2025 season with the Jets, Fields accounted for 11 total touchdowns, despite playing behind a line that allowed 27 sacks. Reid emphasized the importance of acquiring Fields as a crucial insurance policy for the organization, stating that by securing a legitimate backup with starting ability, the team is prepared to win games even if Mahomes is not ready for the season opener.

  • Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn ACL injury over 100 days ago.
  • Mahomes is currently spending up to seven hours a day in rehabilitation.

The players

Andy Reid

The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs who has expressed confidence in Justin Fields as a potential starter if Patrick Mahomes is not ready for the 2026 season.

Patrick Mahomes

The starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs who is currently recovering from a torn ACL injury.

Justin Fields

The veteran quarterback acquired by the Kansas City Chiefs in a trade with the New York Jets, who is now being viewed as a legitimate starter-caliber backup option if Mahomes is not ready for the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“Reid confirmed that Mahomes is making great progress, spending up to seven hours a day at the facility to meet his rehabilitation goals.”

— Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs

“By securing a legitimate backup with starting ability, the team is prepared to win games even if Mahomes is not ready for the season opener.”

— Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs

What’s next

The Chiefs will continue to monitor Mahomes' recovery progress and determine a timeline for his return to the field. In the meantime, Justin Fields will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and compete for the starting job if Mahomes is not ready for the 2026 season opener.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' decision to acquire Justin Fields as a backup quarterback demonstrates their commitment to having a capable starter-level player ready to step in if Mahomes is not fully recovered from his injury. This move provides the team with insurance and flexibility as Mahomes continues his rehabilitation, ensuring the Chiefs are prepared to win games regardless of Mahomes' availability.