According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Kansas City Chiefs are sending a 2027 sixth-round pick to the New York Jets for quarterback Justin Fields. Although obviously with sights to be Patrick Mahomesā backup on the Chiefs depth chart, he might help with the running game while 15 keeps recovering from a torn ACL.
The fact is that the Chiefs need to be better running. Last season, they ranked 20th in the league in rushing offense. In fact, Mahomesā injury came by him trying to force plays with his scrambling, because they couldnāt trust the running game.
Hence, they add Justin Fields, who might not be the prospect everyone thought he would at one point, but he is definitely a dual-threat quarterback, who is arguably more dangerous with his feet than with his throwing of the football.
Fields is a dangerous runner
Back in 2021, Justin Fields ran a 4.44-second 40-yard dash. In fact, in the NFL, his highlight reel is likely to feature his runs more than his passes. He is fast, elusive, and quite strong to swallow contact.
With Fields on the roster, the Chiefs could make designed runs, exploit RPOs (run-pass options), and add more speed from the backfield to a unit that desperately needs it. However, this will last only while Mahomes recovers. Once he is healthy, Fields is likely to not step out of the sideline.
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Chiefs trade for Justin Fields: Will Patrick Mahomes play in Week 1 of 2026?
The Chiefs have made the running game a priority this offseason
Not only Fields, but by signing Kenneth Walker III, the Chiefs have made it clear that improving the running game is a key piece of their comeback season. After all, Patrick Mahomes has never had a 1,000-yard back so far in his career. In fact, itās not even been close.
With a more veteran Mahomes and after a knee surgery, the Chiefs would likely not want to see Mahomes run as much. Still, much of Mahomesā danger comes from his scrambles, so it remains to be seen how much his style will change once he comes back.
