Chiefs Tease Special Play Package for Backup QB Justin Fields

Head coach Andy Reid hints at utilizing Fields' unique skills alongside starter Patrick Mahomes.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:09pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the overlapping movements and perspectives of two football players, conceptually representing the Chiefs' efforts to blend the talents of Patrick Mahomes and Justin Fields in their offense.A cubist interpretation of the Chiefs' plans to integrate backup QB Justin Fields' unique skills alongside starter Patrick Mahomes' dynamic playmaking.Kansas City Today

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid indicated the team may design specialized play packages to take advantage of newly acquired backup quarterback Justin Fields' unique skill set, even when star QB Patrick Mahomes is healthy. Reid praised Fields as "more than a gadget guy" and said the coaching staff is open to finding ways to reinvigorate their offense with Fields' abilities.

Why it matters

The addition of Fields, a 2021 first-round pick, gives the Chiefs a dynamic insurance policy behind Mahomes, who is still recovering from a torn ACL. Integrating Fields into the offense in creative ways could provide a new dimension to Kansas City's attack and keep defenses off balance, even when Mahomes is the starter.

The details

Reid did not want to pigeonhole Fields as just a "gadget guy," suggesting the coaching staff is willing to seriously consider ways to leverage his skills within their offensive scheme. This could involve specially designed play packages or formations that highlight Fields' abilities as a runner and passer, potentially providing a change-of-pace element to complement Mahomes' strengths.

  • Patrick Mahomes is aiming to be healthy for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season, but still has a long way to go in his recovery from a torn ACL.

The players

Andy Reid

Head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, known for his innovative offensive mind and ability to adapt his schemes to his players' strengths.

Patrick Mahomes

Franchise quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, a perennial MVP candidate and one of the most dynamic passers in the NFL.

Justin Fields

Newly acquired backup quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, a 2021 first-round pick with a unique skill set as both a passer and runner.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We've got to make sure we utilize his talents. He's more than a gadget guy.”

— Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs

What’s next

As Mahomes continues his recovery, the Chiefs will work to integrate Fields into their offense during the offseason and preseason to determine the best ways to utilize his skills, whether as a backup or in specialized packages.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' willingness to explore creative ways to feature Justin Fields' abilities alongside Patrick Mahomes' star power could provide a new dimension to their offense and keep defenses guessing, even when Mahomes is healthy and leading the team.