The Kansas City Chiefs could explore the veteran quarterback market this offseason, with Patrick Mahomes’ status uncertain for Week 1 of the 2026 season as he recovers from a torn ACL.
Kansas City’s backup from 2025, Gardner Minshew, is also set to hit free agency, and it remains to be seen whether the team trusts Chris Oladokun enough to make him the starter to begin 2026 if Mahomes misses some time.
That said, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox believes the Chiefs should pursue New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson in free agency.
Knox even believes Kansas City is the best landing spot for Wilson at this stage of his career:
“Wilson is unlikely to find a true starting opportunity this offseason, but he could make sense as a bridge option for the Kansas City Chiefs. Patrick Mahomes is recovering from a torn ACL, and neither Gardner Minshew nor Chris Oladokun is under contract for 2026. Joining Kansas City might allow Wilson to start a few more games, perhaps be part of a Chiefs resurgence, and calmly shift into the backup phase of his career.”
Wilson’s days of being a consistent starting quarterback are over. The 37-year-old started 3 games for the Giants in 2025, tossing three touchdowns to three interceptions before being benched for Jaxson Dart.
Though Wilson is past his prime, the nine-time Pro Bowler can still be a fantastic backup and provide valuable veteran experience to any quarterback room.
Signing Wilson to a cheap deal to fill in for Mahomes to kick off the 2026 season would be a savvy move from Chiefs general manager Brett Veach. Spotrac projects Wilson will land just a one-year deal worth $5.7 million this offseason.
Kansas City would be a fitting spot for Wilson to potentially end his career, as he would be a solid backup for Mahomes and provide viable play until the multiple-time MVP is ready to return.
