How Chiefs View Garrett Nussemeier, Justin Fields Behind Patrick Mahomes Revealed in New NFL Rumors

After being selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL draft, rookie quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is reportedly set for a developmental year.

ESPN's Nate Taylor explained that Nussmeier "should consider this his redshirt rookie season," as the Chiefs acquired Justin Fields from the New York Jets this offseason to be the primary backup to star quarterback Patrick Mahomes in 2026.

"The Chiefs see plenty of potential in him as the future long-term backup to Patrick Mahomes. But with Justin Fields on the roster this season, Nussmeier's role is one where he should listen to Reid, offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, Mahomes and Fields and take notes for 2027 and beyond," Taylor stated. "Those lessons, and a yearlong plan to improve his skills and strengthen his body, should allow Nussmeier to be in the mix to be Mahomes' backup in 2027."

Nussmeier fell in the draft after tests at the NFL scouting combine revealed a cyst on his spine. He was hindered by oblique pain and patellar tendon tendinitis in his left knee throughout his final season at LSU, which kept him from living up to his preseason projection as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. He finished the year with 1,927 passing yards, 12 touchdowns and five interceptions in nine games.

Mahomes is recovering from a torn ACL, so his status for Week 1 has not yet been determined. If he's sidelined, Nussmeier could be thrust into a backup role behind Fields, who was shaky in his lone season with the Jets before being benched.

Nussmeier will have the chance to show his skills during training camp, but the Chiefs could look to add another veteran quarterback if Mahomes isn't recovered in time for the start of the 2026 campaign.