The Kansas City Chiefs were eliminated from postseason contention after a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 15, but most Chiefs fans likely have their priorities elsewhere. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn ACL, which will not only end his 2025 season, but could also have long-term ramifications.
ACL injuries are different for everyone. Some players can bounce back immediately, and it would surprise no one if Mahomes is out there under center in Week 1. However, some injuries are more severe than others, which could lead to Mahomes missing time to begin the 2026 season.
If the worst case scenario becomes reality and Mahomes will sit out a good chunk of games in the 2026 season, Chiefs, for the first time in almost a decade, need to invest some major offseason capital into finding someone who can be a competent game-manager under center.
These four veterans will be percolating in the open market this offseason, and they could help keep everything together until Mahomes makes his triumphant return.
4 veterans quarterbacks Chiefs must consider in 2026 after Patrick Mahomes' torn ACL
4. Gardner Minshew, Kansas City Chiefs
Minshew, the current backup, may stake his case for a shot at filling in for Mahomes in the final three games of the season. A strong finish while showing command of the offense could be all the Chiefs need to feel confident in Minshew as someone who can hold down the fort until No. 15 is back.
3. Tyrod Taylor, New York Jets
Taylor has shown to once again be a viable NFL starter with good mobility and accuracy after replacing Justin Fields as QB1 in New York. With a willingness to go down the field and the ability to pick up a new playbook, Taylor might like one more shot at playing time if the Jets draft a franchise quarterback.
2. Carson Wentz, Minnesota Vikings
Wentz, like Minshew, has familiarity with the Kansas City offense, and he has been the statistical best of the three quarterbacks the Vikings have thrown out there this season. If he is recovered from his own injury-filled 2025 season, look for him to bounce right back as Mahomes' temporary stand-in.
1. Marcus Mariota, Washington Commanders
Mariota has played semi-regularly over the last two seasons as an injury replacement for Jayden Daniels, and the former Titans top pick has put up respectable numbers while showing off more of his trademark mobility. Mariota would be the best target if Mahomes ends up missing a plurality of games in his recovery.