Kansas City Chiefs name Justin Fields backup quarterback for NFL opener

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 12, 2026, 7:25 PM

Last updated Sep 12, 2026

Kansas City Chiefs name Justin Fields backup quarterback for NFL opener
Summary

The Kansas City Chiefs released their unofficial depth chart ahead of their Week 1 matchup against the Denver Broncos. Justin Fields is officially listed as the backup quarterback behind Patrick Mahomes, who has been cleared to play following his recovery from a season-ending ACL injury. Rookie Garrett Nussmeier will serve as the team’s third quarterback. The Chiefs acquired Fields during the offseason to provide experience and insurance at the position while Mahomes underwent rehabilitation. Head coach Andy Reid emphasized that Fields is viewed as a legitimate professional starter rather than a gadget player. While Nussmeier showed promise during the preseason, Fields retains the primary backup role as the team prepares to host the Broncos for the start of the season.

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Status Watch
  • Justin Fields is the backup quarterback behind starter Patrick Mahomes.
  • Patrick Mahomes is cleared to play against the Denver Broncos in Week 1.
  • Rookie Garrett Nussmeier is listed as the third quarterback on the depth chart.
  • The Chiefs acquired Justin Fields in the offseason to provide insurance for Mahomes.
Latest Updates
  • 7:25 PMYahoo SportsChiefs Announce Justin Fields News Days Before Start of NFL Season vs. Broncos
What they're saying
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The Kansas City Chiefs revealed some critical Justin Fields news ahead of the team's Week 1 game against the Denver Broncos. The post Chiefs Announce Justin Fields News Days Before Start of NFL Season vs. Broncos appeared first on HEAVY.

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