In a surprising turn of events, quarterback Gardner Minshew’s time with the Las Vegas Raiders came to an abrupt end as the team released him with a failed physical designation. This shocking move has left fans and analysts wondering about the future of the former Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts quarterback, who was expected to play a key role for the Raiders in the upcoming season.
Minshew’s Raiders Tenure Cut Short
Minshew joined the Raiders ahead of the 2024 NFL season, signing a two-year, $25 million contract to compete for the starting quarterback job. With his signature mustache, charismatic personality, and scrappy playstyle, he quickly became a fan favorite. However, his performance on the field was inconsistent. Over ten games, he threw for 2,013 yards, nine touchdowns, and ten interceptions before suffering a season-ending injury in Week 12 against the Denver Broncos.
The injury—a fractured collarbone—was a significant setback for Minshew and ultimately led to the Raiders’ decision to release him. The failed physical designation suggests that his recovery was not progressing as expected, forcing Las Vegas to move on.
Raiders Move Forward Without Minshew
The decision to cut ties with Minshew marks another shakeup for the Raiders, who have been looking for stability at the quarterback position since the departure of longtime starter Derek Carr. The team initially brought in Minshew as a bridge quarterback while developing a long-term option. However, with his injury concerns and up-and-down play, the Raiders opted to part ways and explore other options in free agency and the draft.
While some fans were disappointed by the move, others saw it as an opportunity for the team to reset and build toward the future. Head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco are expected to target a new quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, where they hold a top-10 pick.
Minshew Lands With the Kansas City Chiefs
Despite his release, Minshew did not stay unemployed for long. Within days, he signed a one-year contract with the Kansas City Chiefs, joining the defending Super Bowl champions as a backup to superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes. This move presents a fresh opportunity for Minshew, who now finds himself in an elite organization with one of the best coaching staffs in the league.
Interestingly, Minshew, at 28 years old, becomes the first Chiefs backup quarterback to be younger than Mahomes, who is 29. He is expected to compete with veteran Blaine Gabbert and rookie quarterbacks for the primary backup role.
What’s Next for Minshew?
Minshew’s journey in the NFL has been defined by resilience. From being a sixth-round pick in 2019 to earning starting opportunities with multiple teams, he has consistently found ways to contribute. If he can recover fully and impress in Kansas City, he could position himself for another starting opportunity in 2026.
For now, his main focus will be rehabbing his injury and learning from Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid. While his release from the Raiders was unexpected, it might be a blessing in disguise as he joins one of the league’s most successful franchises.