The Chiefs are dealing with a major problem at QB following Patrick Mahomes’ surprise injury, and while it appears the illness won’t keep him from Saturday’s game against the Texans, it’s a reminder that Kansas City needs to make sure that it always has a powerful backup.

Carson Wentz is ready to step in if needed, but is a free agent next offseason. Should he look for a bigger opportunity elsewhere, a recently retired QB just announced he’s making an NFL comeback.

Teddy Bridgewater, selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft and beloved across the league, announced Tuesday that he wants to play for a team next year.

During an appearance on NFL Network with Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport, Bridgewater declared his intention to sign with a team this offseason. In 2024, he coached his alma mater, Miami Northwestern High School, to a Florida state championship.

His immediate success and well-documented history as a great leader would make him a wonderful addition to any locker room. That’s why he makes so much sense as a Chiefs target in free agency.

Kansas City has an excellent culture and the best coach in the NFL in Andy Reid. He won’t be around forever, so it’s logical to start developing young coaches who could eventually take over. That’s not to say Bridgewater is ready to be Reid’s successor, although it’s easy to imagine he’ll ultimately be ready for a big assistant role once the legendary coach retires.

In the short term, Bridgewater is an overqualified backup. He completed 66.4% of his career passes for 15,120 yards with 75 touchdowns and 47 interceptions, compiling a 33-32 record as a starter. The former Louisville star made a dramatic comeback and returned to being a productive player after a devastating knee injury in 2018 that nearly caused his leg to be amputated.

Maybe Wentz will sign another contract and remain the Chiefs’ backup. If he longs for greener pastures, Bridgewater should be seriously considered joining the future three-time defending Super Bowl champions.

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