Report: The Chiefs have signed Carson Wentz to replace Patrick Mahomes as backup quarterback for the 2024 season

The Philadelphia Eagles were where Carson Wentz started his NFL career. He will now play for the most successful Eagles head coach in history in Kansas City. The veteran quarterback, who became available for free agency in 2024 almost a month ago, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Chiefs, according to NFL Media. He will serve as Andy Reid’s backup quarterback for Patrick Mahomes.

The 31-year-old Wentz last competed for the Los Angeles Rams, when he started three games as Matthew Stafford’s backup.

Although this is his fourth team switch in as many years, his transfer to the Chiefs comes after a short but highly appreciated time under Sean McVay, when he helped the Rams win in Week 18 and advance to the playoffs.

With incumbent backup Blaine Gabbert still unsigned in free agency, Wentz in Kansas City instantly becomes Reid’s best insurance for Mahomes. The Chiefs have historically used Chad Henne in the No. 2 spot, preferring to use an accomplished veteran. Wentz also has a ton of experience, having made 93 career starts.

Four years after Reid left the Eagles, Wentz was selected by them with the second overall pick in the 2016 draft. He played his first five seasons in green. A late-season ACL tear kept him out of the Eagles’ historic Super Bowl win, and his inconsistent play over the next three seasons led to his sudden departure before the 2021 season. He was an MVP candidate in his second season. Wentz was traded to the Indianapolis Colts, although he only played there for one season before being acquired by the Washington Commanders. Before being released, he had a 2-5 record as a starter in Washington, D.C. He didn’t sign with the Rams until November of 2023.

In addition to having starting experience, Wentz at least shares some stylistic traits with Mahomes; the latter is renowned for his strong arm and backyard-style approach, so he makes sense as a complementary quarterback and coach pair whose off-script production and inventiveness are what set them apart.