Chiefs Newcomer’s strong 2025 preseason is a good thing for Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes

Minshew put a ribbon on his 2025 summer against a NFC opponent, completing 19 of 26 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns, including a last-minute, go-ahead drive capped by a strike to an undrafted rookie wideout.

Minshew signed a short-term veteran deal earlier this offseason in a move that shows how much the Chiefs value his role on the roster. It also confirms that GM Brett Veach doesn’t want the former Washington State star anywhere but Kansas City, even with Patrick Mahomes firmly in place.

It’s been pretty obvious throughout training camp and the preseason that Minshew has a tighter grasp on Andy Reid’s offense than the younger reserves right now, and there’s no doubt players believe in Minshew when he’s in the huddle. Translation? He would be a fine starter for the Chiefs if anything should happen to Mahomes — whether it’s a short-term injury or simply protecting the franchise QB from unnecessary preseason risk.

We’re a long way from any scenario where Mahomes isn’t “the guy,” but it’s clear that Gardner Minshew’s continued development has raised the standard in 2025. Kansas City’s QB room is no longer Mahomes or bust; Minshew’s stock is rising almost as fast as his value inside the locker room.

If there’s one thing that helps NFL players — the real-deal players — reach their maximum upside, it’s competition. It’s also the fear of losing their job. Even in Kansas City, there’s at least a little bit of that for the backup battle. And, no, it won’t be a 2025 “QB1 controversy.” The Chiefs will ride with Mahomes while Minshew sharpens the room and keeps the offense on schedule. But if disaster ever strikes? Or if the offense needs a steady hand for a stretch? All options are on the table.

The awesome Gardner Minshew story could reach new heights if the moment calls. Mahomes has as strong a competitive spirit as anyone on the roster, and if anything will keep him razor-sharp in a championship chase, it’s the surging, steady presence of Minshew behind him.