The Kansas City Chiefs’ preseason has turned into a competition phase, where every roster spot is still open and nothing is fixed yet. Justin Fields, who was aiming for the backup QB role, has now been joined by rookie Garrett Nussmeier as well.

This has further intensified the race for the position of backup quarterback. And according to Fansided expert Rucker Haringey, it makes Fields' spot on the team uncertain going into the preseason.

“The presence of seventh-round pick Garrett Nussmeier should give Fields cause for concern,” Haringey wrote on July 4. “Fields would need to fall flat on his face during the preseason to lose his spot on the depth chart, but the Chiefs might go with Nussmeier if they feel he's a better fit for their offense.”  

In Haringey's July 4 Fansided report, he observes that both the two players competing for the backup QB role have something different to offer. Despite being a veteran, Fields' claim on the position is not foolproof.

Fields enters the preseason as the leading option for the Chiefs’ backup quarterback role, mainly because of his running ability, which gives Chiefs head coach Andy Reid more flexibility while designing the offense. 

Rookie Garrett Nussmeier, on the other hand, brings a more traditional pocket-passing approach that focuses on structure and control.

Unfortunately, Nussmeier's draft stock dropped in his final college season because of injuries, which affected his overall performance and caused him to fall in the draft. 

That difference in styles is clearer when looking at their recent production. Garrett Nussmeier had a big 2024 college season at LSU, throwing for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns.

On the other hand, Justin Fields comes into camp off a tougher NFL stretch where his passing numbers were limited. However, he ended with 1,259 passing yards and a 38.7 passer QBR in a 2-7 run as a starter.

While Nussmeier’s injury history adds some doubt, his current form keeps him firmly in the race. This also threatens Fields' future with the team, as his contract with the Chiefs ends in 2027, making this a crucial season for him.

The final decision will depend on preseason performance and consistency from both quarterbacks. The one who adapts better under pressure will likely win the backup role. 

This competition comes at a time when the Chiefs are already focusing on their overall roster direction after a C+ graded 2026 offseason. 

Chiefs get a C+ grade for 2026 offseason

ESPN’s Seth Walder graded the Kansas City Chiefs a C+ for their moves in the 2026 offseason. The analyst had several complaints about the franchise's roster and staff recruitment decisions.

"The team did not renew offensive coordinator Matt Nagy's contract and brought former coordinator Eric Bieniemy back," Walder said. "Kansas City also made a high-profile free agent signing in reigning Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III…but Walker will be an upgrade to the Chiefs' running game." 

Additionally, the Chiefs signed Khyiris Tonga, Justin Fields, and L’Jarius Sneed in free agency, along with draft picks like Mansoor Delane, Peter Woods, and R. Mason Thomas. This further stretches their salary cap situation ahead of the 2026 season. 

Who will hold the Chiefs' backup QB spot in the upcoming season? Let us know your views in the comments.

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Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit