The NFL free agency period has delivered several lucrative new contracts to players across the league. Teams have also agreed to and completed a number of trades.
The Kansas City Chiefs have emerged as a team looking to strengthen their roster, particularly at the quarterback position.
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Patrick Mahomes is currently recovering from a late-season ACL tear. His recovery timetable remains unclear, so the Chiefs have prepared for multiple scenarios.
Oct 9, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson (3) watches from the sidelines during the second quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The team reportedly has a potential insurance plan in mind. Super Bowl-winning quarterback Russell Wilson has emerged as a name to watch for the Chiefs’ QB2 role.
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Wilson remains a free agent and has yet to sign with a team. He has been taking recruiting visits with his son, Future, while considering his next destination. Meanwhile, the Chiefs have continued their due diligence on a possible short-term replacement for Mahomes.
Wilson could be an ideal fit. Entering his 15th NFL season, he has shown in recent years that he can still play effectively.
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However, Wilson is not a long-term solution. That reality could create a perfect scenario for both sides if Mahomes cannot start the regular season.
Jan 4, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson (3) waves to fans after the game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Wilson started three games with the New York Giants in 2025 before the team benched him in favor of Jaxson Dart. His best performance came in a loss to the Dallas Cowboys, when he threw for 450 yards and three touchdowns.
In 2024, Wilson posted a 6–5 record with the Pittsburgh Steelers and led them to the playoffs. If the Chiefs want a viable veteran option currently available on the market, Wilson stands out as a strong candidate.
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