Backup quarterback options who make sense behind Patrick Mahomes for the Chiefs
By Jacob Milham
Blaine Gabbert
If it ain't broke, don't fix it right? Guys like Chad Henne and Chase Daniel extended their NFL careers under this adage, with multiple seasons as Chiefs backups. Missouri product Blaine Gabbert served as the team's backup in last year's season. He already knows the system, Gabbert is a local player, but he was not great in limited action. He is still the betting favorite for Kansas City's backup quarterback in 2024.
Gabbert did not impress Chiefs fans in his two games last season. He played in Weeks 3 and 17, going 18/35 with 185 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions. Throwing that many picks in so few passing attempts, from a veteran quarterback no less, is pretty concerning. But, two of those came in a 41-10 blowout where Gabbert could have gotten trigger-happy.
It is a good thing Kansas City did not need Gabbert more last season. Despite the limited on-field action, Gabbert's presence was significant for the Chiefs. He was part of the team's march to Super Bowl 58, providing valuable experience and depth at the quarterback position. His role as a backup was particularly important given his previous experience, including winning a Super Bowl ring as Tom Brady's backup with the Buccaneers in 2021.
There are few quarterbacks left with the career accolades Gabbert does. The former first-round pick now has two Super Bowl rings, a positive career touchdown-interception ratio, and works in several different systems. The Chiefs know what they are getting with Gabbert, albeit a low-ceiling option.