Russell Wilson Rumored to Join Chiefs in Free Agency

Potential move could have implications for Patrick Mahomes' recovery from ACL tear.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:52am

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Rumors have been circulating on social media that veteran quarterback Russell Wilson may sign with the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency. The Chiefs could use another solid QB option while Patrick Mahomes recovers from a torn ACL, but the origins of the Wilson-to-Chiefs rumors are unclear.

Why it matters

If the Chiefs were to sign Wilson, it would provide insurance and depth at the quarterback position while Mahomes rehabs his injury. However, it's uncertain whether Wilson, a former Super Bowl champion, would be willing to accept a backup role once Mahomes is healthy.

The details

Several sports media outlets, including Complex Sports and Athlon Sports, have reported on the possibility of Wilson joining the Chiefs, but the original source of the rumor is unclear. Wilson, 37, started the first three games of the 2025 season for the New York Giants before being replaced by Jaxson Dart. The previous season, he helped the Pittsburgh Steelers reach the playoffs.

  • In 2025, Wilson started the first three games of the season for the New York Giants before being replaced by Jaxson Dart.
  • The previous season, Wilson helped the Pittsburgh Steelers reach the playoffs.

The players

Russell Wilson

A veteran quarterback who has won a Super Bowl and played for the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers in recent seasons.

Patrick Mahomes

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

Jaxson Dart

The quarterback who replaced Russell Wilson as the starter for the New York Giants in 2025.

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The takeaway

While the rumors of Russell Wilson joining the Kansas City Chiefs are intriguing, the origins of the speculation are unclear. Any potential move would hinge on Wilson's willingness to accept a backup role once Patrick Mahomes is healthy, as well as the Chiefs' interest in adding the veteran quarterback to their roster.