The Kansas City Chiefs received encouraging news regarding quarterback Gardner Minshew, confirming that he has avoided a serious injury. Initial concerns arose after Minshew was carted off during a game against the Tennessee Titans, fearing a significant knee issue. Fortunately, medical evaluations have determined that he did not sustain a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL); instead, he is dealing with a bone bruise.
Minshew, who is currently the backup to star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, joined the Chiefs last summer after a stint with the Las Vegas Raiders. He made his debut in Week 16 against the Titans when Mahomes suffered an ACL and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) tear the week prior. During that game, Minshew completed just one pass for 15 yards before sustaining his knee injury.
The 29-year-old quarterback has reassured fans that he did not experience any long-term damage and is now fully fit heading into free agency, as reported by ESPN. In Minshew’s absence, Chris Oladokun stepped in to finish the game against the Titans and also started the Chiefs’ final two games of the season.
Minshew’s career has seen him play in 63 games across various NFL teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars, Philadelphia Eagles, Indianapolis Colts, and Raiders. He signed a one-year contract with the Chiefs in the summer of 2023. Head Coach Andy Reid expressed confidence in Minshew’s abilities and potential future with the team, stating, “We had brought Gardner in to do that [backup role]. Unfortunately, he got hurt early in that (Titans) game, but we still have a ton of confidence that he can do that.”
Reid emphasized the importance of Minshew’s experience and attitude, noting, “He is somebody that has won games in the league and at the same time understands his role and handles himself right in the room. That becomes an important thing.”
In the meantime, Patrick Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl champion, underwent surgery the day after his injury against the Los Angeles Chargers. He is optimistic about a return for the first week of the upcoming season, aiming to meet the goals set by his medical team. Mahomes stated, “I just try to maximize those – they hold me back because I always want to go a little bit further. Obviously long-term, I want to be ready for Week 1. Doctors said that I could be.”
As the Chiefs prepare for the next season, Minshew’s recovery and Mahomes’ rehabilitation will be crucial for the team’s performance moving forward. The Chiefs look to build on their recent successes, with both quarterbacks playing pivotal roles in their offensive strategy.
