Chiefs get significant injury update for Patrick Mahomes backup

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes walks with backup Gardner Minshew

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Matthew Couden

By Matthew Couden

Contributing Writer

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The past NFL season saw some devastating, season-ending injuries, with torn ACLs a main culprit, ending the seasons of Micah Parsons and Patrick Mahomes.

Mahomes suffered his injury amid the Kansas City Chiefs' attempt to salvage their season as they clung to playoff hopes. Unfortunately, losing Mahomes added further issues for the team, as they turned to backup Gardner Minshew to guide them.

However, Minshew also suffered what appeared to be a devastating injury, which some believed was also a torn ACL. The Chiefs then relied on Chris Oladokun and Shane Buechele to close out the disappointing season.

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On Wednesday, Kansas City and Minshew received a significant update on his recovery from injury, amid Mahomes' recovery.

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes walks with backup Gardner Minshew

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According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Chiefs' Gardner Minshew didn't tear his ACL as was initially feared. Schefter reported via a source that "it was a bone bruise not requiring any significant surgery."

That is good news for Minshew, as Schefter reports he's heading into free agency. It's currently unclear if Kansas City would bring him back, just in case Mahomes can't start the season, but it appears the multi-time Super Bowl winner should be ready by Week 1.

Minshew, who entered the NFL in 2019, has played for multiple teams throughout his career, including the Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, Indianapolis Colts, and Las Vegas Raiders. He joined the Chiefs for the 2025 season, participating in six games, four of which he started.

The 2025 Chiefs season saw him throw for 37 yards and an interception in that brief time on the field. He previously demonstrated a track record of starting and trying to guide other teams throughout his career, with some of his best seasons occurring for the Jaguars and Colts.

It's unclear who might be interested in Minshew's services, but a team drafting a new quarterback to develop or figuring out what direction to go at the position might need to add him to the roster. Or they could add him as a strong backup option, just in case of a rough injury like the one that hit Mahomes late in the Chiefs' season.