Gardner Minshew has been classified as a middle-tier backup quarterback, a ranking that influences the Kansas City Chiefs’ plans for their quarterback depth chart heading into the 2025 NFL season. This ranking reflects Minshew’s inconsistent performances across recent years and suggests that while he offers solid support, the franchise does not anticipate him to match the performance of starter Patrick Mahomes. Understanding Minshew’s positioning helps clarify the Chiefs’ strategic approach to maintaining stability behind their star quarterback.
Details Behind Minshew’s Backup Quarterback Ranking
Minshew’s career has been marked by fluctuations in productivity. In 2023, he had a strong run as the Indianapolis Colts’ starter, demonstrating capability and potential. However, his subsequent tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders was less successful, described by analysts as a “disastrous starting role.” Over the past two seasons, he has combined for 20 starts, which underscores a level of volatility in his playing time and results.
Although Minshew had shorter starting stints early in his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, he later shared playing time with the Philadelphia Eagles, starting only four games in two seasons there. This mixed track record positioned him within the mid-range group of NFL backup quarterbacks rather than as a top-tier option.
Sports Illustrated’s ranking of the NFL’s 32 backup quarterbacks places Minshew at number 14, signaling a reliable but not standout backup. Experts project that Minshew will likely remain a supporting figure rather than challenging for the starting role in Kansas City.
Implications for the Chiefs’ Quarterback Depth in 2025
With Minshew as a middle-tier backup quarterback, the Kansas City Chiefs secure a competent and experienced player to back up Mahomes, affording the starting quarterback protection in case of injury or rest. However, this ranking suggests that the Chiefs might continue exploring options to strengthen their backup quarterback position or prepare for future transitions.
Maintaining a capable backup is crucial for teams aiming to preserve championship-caliber performance, especially as the physical demands of an NFL season increase. Minshew’s presence assures the Chiefs have a seasoned professional on the roster, but the organization may keep an eye on emerging talent or potential free agents to enhance competition and depth.
Associated Roster Moves and Evaluations on the Chiefs’ Offensive Line
The Chiefs have also focused on bolstering their offensive line following challenges faced in Super Bowl LIX. After re-signing guard Trey Smith and acquiring Jaylon Moore, as well as drafting Josh Simmons, Kansas City is carefully assessing whether these changes improve their pass protection and run blocking.
These moves are critical in supporting both the quarterback stability and the running game. The offensive line’s performance will directly impact Mahomes’s effectiveness and, by extension, Minshew’s ability to perform if called upon. The offensive line remains a strategic focus for the Chiefs as they build toward sustained success in 2025.
Notable Player Updates from the Chiefs’ Roster
Running back Isiah Pacheco is preparing for a bounceback season after injuries hampered his 2024 campaign. He has concentrated on regaining his ideal playing weight and speed, vital for his role in Kansas City’s offense going forward.
Pacheco stated,
“Just going through injuries, I wanted to gain weight and be a little heavier. To surpass and get better — and build off of this past year on the field.”
He gained muscle during the offseason to return to the form that made him an impactful player in his first two seasons.
Head coach Andy Reid commented on Pacheco’s physical condition:
“Physically, he looks real good. He’s put on a couple pounds of good weight. He’d gotten himself down there a little bit last year and leaned up, but I think he looks tremendous right now.”
Pacheco also shared how returning to his roots motivates him:
“I use it as a big motivation for me. I’m from Jersey, so I went back home and worked out at the gym where I started at the YMCA. I started reminiscing. You’ve got people from New Jersey wearing Eagles hats all the time. They’ll question me like, ‘Wow, you’re in here. We got you all this year.’ So that right there only motivates you to go harder.”
Additional Context on Backup Quarterback Talent Across the NFL
The backup quarterback landscape throughout the NFL continues to be shaped by players with diverse experiences and potential. Minshew fits into a cohort that provides reliability without consistent elite performance, which is common among middle-tier backups.
Experts analyze the tier rankings to give teams perspective on their options and potential targets during free agency or the draft. This wider context allows franchises like the Chiefs to gauge how their depth chart compares with those of other contenders and to strategize accordingly.
Impact of the Backup Quarterback Ranking on Chiefs’ Future Plans
The designation of Gardner Minshew as a middle-tier backup quarterback signals that the Chiefs value his experience but remain vigilant for opportunities to improve. This balance ensures the team has immediate coverage for Patrick Mahomes, while potentially seeking rising talent or proven veterans to inject competition and prepare for future transitions.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, monitoring Minshew’s performance and development, alongside ongoing adjustments to the offensive line and running back roster, will be key to the Chiefs’ pursuit of contending at the highest level. This strategic approach reflects the dynamic and competitive nature of the NFL, where depth and readiness often define championship outcomes.