KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Patrick Mahomes will not start or play in the Kansas City Chiefs’ preseason opener Saturday, head coach Andy Reid confirmed. Fans will instead get their first look at quarterback Justin Fields in a Chiefs uniform.
Fields is a five-year veteran and former first-round draft pick who has previously played for the Chicago Bears, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets.
“I’ve been blessed with a lot of knowledge since I’ve been here and I hope to continue to grow,” Fields said.
### **Nussmeier impresses in camp**
Third-string quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is also expected to play. The former LSU standout has drawn praise from Reid during training camp.
“I mean, every time he’s in, he moves the ball and i look at that,” Reid said.
Reid announced that Fields will start the game, with Nussmeier coming in to replace him. Fourth-stringer Chris Oladokun will finish the game at QB.
### **Starters unlikely to see the field**
Reid said it is unlikely that starters including running back Kenneth Walker, Travis Kelce, Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice will play. The rebuilt offensive line, which is expected to feature at least one new starter, may or may not see action.
“Listen, there’s a chance they get in and play — how much, I can’t tell you that — if at all,” Reid said.
### **Rookies expected to play on defense**
Most defensive rookies are expected to see the field Saturday, including cornerback Jadon Canady, defensive tackle Peter Woods and edge rusher Mason Thomas.
But first-round pick Mansoor Delane has been injured and is not expected to see any action.
Veteran defensive tackle Chris Jones made clear his preference regarding preseason play.
“I don’t want to play in the preseason. I’d rather not play, but if I do, I’ll buckle up,” Jones said.
The Chiefs’ preseason opener is scheduled for Saturday at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.
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