Could the Chiefs Be a Fit for Russell Wilson While Mahomes Recovers?
Patrick Mahomes has made it clear-he’s aiming to be ready for the start of the 2026 NFL season after suffering a torn ACL last month. And knowing Mahomes, you can bet he’ll do everything in his power to hit that target. But even with the two-time MVP attacking rehab with his usual intensity, the Kansas City Chiefs have to prepare for the possibility that he might not be 100% by Week 1.
That’s where things get interesting.
As of now, both of the Chiefs’ other quarterbacks-Gardner Minshew and Chris Oladokun-are set to hit free agency. That leaves Kansas City in a spot where they need to think seriously about adding a veteran presence behind Mahomes, someone who can hold down the fort if needed and seamlessly transition into a backup role once QB1 returns.
One name being floated as a potential fit? Russell Wilson.
Yes, that Russell Wilson. The former Super Bowl champ and nine-time Pro Bowler is no longer the dynamic dual-threat who once terrorized defenses in Seattle. But he’s still a savvy veteran with a deep well of experience-and he could be exactly what the Chiefs need in a short-term insurance policy.
Wilson spent last season with the New York Giants, where he threw for 831 yards and three touchdowns. He opened the year as the starter before being replaced by rookie Jaxson Dart.
The numbers weren’t eye-popping, and it’s clear Wilson isn’t the same player he was in his prime. But in a limited role-especially in a quarterback-friendly system like Andy Reid’s-he could still provide value.
From Kansas City’s perspective, the move would make a lot of sense. Wilson wouldn’t be coming in to compete with Mahomes; he’d be a bridge, a stabilizer, someone who could manage the offense for a few weeks if necessary without derailing the season. And once Mahomes is back, Wilson could slide into a backup role, offering leadership and mentorship in the locker room.
For Wilson, the fit is appealing too. At this stage of his career, starting jobs are scarce. But joining a contender like the Chiefs gives him a chance to contribute meaningfully, potentially start a few games, and stay relevant in a league that’s quickly moving toward younger, more mobile quarterbacks.
And let’s be honest-if you’re going to be a backup, you might as well do it behind one of the best in the game, on a team that’s always in the Super Bowl conversation.
Of course, nothing’s official yet. But with Mahomes working his way back and the Chiefs needing to solidify the quarterback room, don’t be surprised if Russell Wilson becomes a name to watch in Kansas City this offseason. It’s a move that could benefit both sides-and help the Chiefs stay steady while their franchise cornerstone gets back to full strength.