The Kansas City Chiefs’ last season ended in the worst possible way. Patrick Mahomes suffered a serious injury that still casts doubt over his availability for Week 1 of the upcoming season, making the reported addition of Justin Fields a potential key as his first replacement.
According to journalist Adam Schefter, who reported the trade via his X account, the franchise’s plan is to give Fields ample reps during the offseason and training camp, so he could potentially start if Mahomes isn’t 100% recovered.
The former New York Jets quarterback reportedly had several offers to leave the Big Apple, but ultimately chose to join the Chiefs’ QB depth chart, with his physical still pending. Major acquisition for Andy Reid ahead of what’s coming.
What injury did Mahomes suffer?
Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee during the Week 15 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on December 14, 2025. The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter while he was scrambling, ultimately ending his season and requiring surgery the following day.
At that time, Gardner Minshew stepped in as his replacement, but he left for the Arizona Cardinals in free agency. Therefore, the Chiefs’ QB depth chart now includes not only Mahomes and Fields, but also Chris Oladokun and Jake Haener.
Fields’ 2025 performance
During the 2025 season with the Jets, Justin Fields appeared in 9 games, completing 128 of 204 passes for 1,259 yards, 7 touchdowns, and just 1 interception, finishing with an 89.5 passer rating.
On the ground, he added 383 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns on 71 carries, a sign that Fields could help the Chiefs improve their running game. Despite his efficiency in limiting turnovers, the team struggled with a 2-7 record in his starts before he was sidelined by a knee injury in late December.
A fragile comeback
Recovery from a combined ACL and LCL tear typically requires 9 to 12 months of intensive rehabilitation. Given the severity of Mahomes’ injury, he is expected to be cleared for full football activities by the start of the 2026 Chiefs regular season in September.
SURVEY Do you think Patrick Mahomes will be the Chiefs’ starter in Week 1?
Do you think Patrick Mahomes will be the Chiefs’ starter in Week 1?
already voted 14 fans