Kansas City Chiefs’ Backup, Third-String, & Emergency Quarterbacks

Patrick Mahomes had the best NFL odds to win MVP at the end of the regular season for good reason. He was playing like the best quarterback in the league.

But if he were to miss time, like he did earlier in the NFL playoffs because of an ankle injury, the Chiefs would surely have to make some adjustments.

Who Is the Kansas City Chiefs’ Backup Quarterback?

Chad Henne is the Chiefs’ backup quarterback. He warmed up on the sideline during the Super Bowl after Patrick Mahomes limped off the field with under two minutes left in the first half due to a reaggravation of his ankle injury.

Henne was drafted in 2008 in the second round out of Michigan by the Dolphins. He then went to the Jaguars in 2012 and became a Chief in 2018.

Henne does have plenty of experience, so he should be comfortable if called upon. Before 2022, he played in 75 games and started 54.

Who Is the Kansas City Chiefs’ Third-String Quarterback?

Shane Buechele is the Chiefs’ third-string quarterback.

Buechele was an undrafted free agent out of SMU in 2021 when he joined the Chiefs. He has yet to throw a pass for Kansas City in the regular season.

Who Is the Kansas City Chiefs’ Emergency Quarterback?

Jerick McKinnon is the Chiefs’ emergency quarterback, Kansas City head coach Andy Reid said after Patrick Mahomes was injured in their divisional-round playoff game against the Jaguars.

McKinnon, a running back, was a triple-option quarterback at Georgia Southern.

Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has also been the team’s emergency quarterback in the past.