Chiefs' Carson Wentz in 'different' role backing up Patrick Mahomes: 'I'll keep finding ways I can help'

Last offseason, Carson Wentz waited for a potential starting quarterback role that never materialized. This spring, the former MVP candidate quickly jumped into a spot behind the best quarterback in the NFL, signing a deal in Kansas City to back up Patrick Mahomes.

For the first time in his career, Wentz is beginning a season as an unquestionable backup. He has the right mindset, admitting during last month’s offseason practices that he’s there to assist Mahomes.

“We’re still early,” Wentz said, via ESPN. “We’re only in here a handful of hours every day and a couple days a week, and it’s not quite the grind that it will be. So that’ll keep evolving and kind of how I find my place, so to speak. But Pat and I already have a great relationship and that’ll keep growing and I’ll keep finding ways I can help.

I will seek any possible method to assist him, regardless if it’s off the field, on the field, or anywhere else.

After longtime veteran backup Chad Henne retired in 2023, the Chiefs signed Blaine Gabbert to fill the role. This offseason, it’s Wentz’s gig.

Coach Andy Reid spoke glowingly of the former first-round pick, mentioning his play in the one start for the Los Angeles Rams last season.

Reid acknowledged that Carson did a commendable job when he worked with the Rams last season, particularly in a game towards the end. He added that they had communicated with Carson last year while discussing with Blaine, but Carson was waiting for a possible starting opportunity. Reid expressed satisfaction with getting Carson on board and affirmed that if there’s a chance for him to play, he will take it.

Carson appears impressive. He’s learning swiftly, he’s intelligent, and he blends in smoothly. He comes across as an exceptional individual, and he performs well in the quarterback room.

Wentz confessed that he’s approaching 2024 with a new outlook, aware that he has no chance of dethroning the three-time Super Bowl MVP.

Wentz admitted, “It’s a different experience. I won’t pretend otherwise. I’m rapidly absorbing as much information as I can, forming bonds with everyone on the team, and continually improving on the field. You always need to be prepared to step up when needed, so it’s the same in that aspect.”

Mahomes has not been absent from a game because of an injury since mid-2019. If this pattern persists, Wentz’s main responsibilities will likely be to assist with film analysis and possibly some minor cleanup tasks.

Meanwhile, he hopes to learn from the two-time NFL MVP.

“Mahomes has an incredibly quick game processing ability,” commented Wentz. “From calling protections, to swift huddle exits, to making anticipatory throws, he does it all. It’s not just visually entertaining, but also enlightening in a way, as he opens up different angles on plays that perhaps weren’t visible before due to his speedy gameplay.”

Wentz is hopeful that a year of serving as Mahomes’ caddy will propel him back into a potential starting role in 2025. If nothing else, demonstrating his willingness to play as a backup quarterback could extend his career in the NFL.