Chiefs Reveal Plan for Justin Fields Amid Mahomes Injury

Andy Reid says the team will find ways to get Fields involved, even if Mahomes is ready for Week 1.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:20pm

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With uncertainty around Patrick Mahomes' recovery from a torn ACL, the Kansas City Chiefs acquired quarterback Justin Fields from the New York Jets this offseason. Head coach Andy Reid has indicated the team plans to find ways to get Fields involved, even if Mahomes is able to play in Week 1 as expected.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' offense is built around Mahomes, the 2023 NFL MVP. If he's not fully healthy to start the season, Fields' ability to contribute could be crucial to the team's success early on. How Reid integrates Fields into the game plan will be closely watched, as the young QB looks to bounce back from a difficult 2025 season with the Jets.

The details

Mahomes and his camp have said he will be ready for Week 1, but given the typical 12-month timeline for ACL recoveries, his availability for the season opener appears doubtful. Reid has hinted that the Chiefs will have a package of plays designed specifically for Fields, who they acquired from the Jets this offseason. Fields struggled as the Jets' starter in 2025, but he'll have a better supporting cast in Kansas City's high-powered offense.

  • Mahomes suffered a torn ACL in the Chiefs' final regular season game in 2025.
  • The typical recovery timeline for an ACL tear is 12 months.

The players

Patrick Mahomes

The Chiefs' starting quarterback and 2023 NFL MVP, who is recovering from a torn ACL.

Justin Fields

The former first-round pick acquired by the Chiefs from the Jets this offseason, who will likely see playing time early in the season if Mahomes is not fully healthy.

Andy Reid

The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has indicated the team will find ways to get Fields involved in the offense.

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What they’re saying

“'Andy Reid reiterates he believes Justin Fields is more than a gadget guy at QB. When asked if Fields would have a package, Reid didn't dismiss the possibility and said he wanted to talk more with Fields. Joked that Fields was bored, the Chiefs would find him something to do.'”

— Jesse Newell, Reporter, The Athletic

What’s next

The Chiefs will continue to monitor Mahomes' recovery and determine the best way to integrate Fields into the offense, whether that's as the starter or in a specific package of plays.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' quarterback situation bears watching as the 2026 season approaches. If Mahomes is not fully healthy, Fields' ability to contribute could be crucial to the team's success early on. Reid's comments suggest the coaching staff is committed to finding ways to get the young QB involved, even if Mahomes is able to play in Week 1.