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


Posted August 24, 2025
Kansas City Chiefs backup quarterback Gardner Minshew was the team’s best QB of the 2025 preseason. In fact, it wasn’t particularly close, either.

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.

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Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."