Chiefs HC Andy Reid makes feelings clear after benching Patrick Mahomes for Carson Wentz for Week 18

On Wednesday, Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid confirmed that backup quarterback Carson Wentz will start in place of Patrick Mahomes in Week 18 against the Denver Broncos.

"It wasn't a hard decision," Reid said (via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport). "I've been through it before. It gives the other guys an opportunity to grow."

Since the Chiefs Kingdom is prepared to cap off the regular season, Reid's choice shifts the narrative to Wentz, a nine-year veteran QB waiting in the wings for his moment.

Moreover, Reid's decision is backed by the comfort of his team having already clinched the AFC's No. 1 seed.

Sunday's game for Carson Wentz offers more than a chance to close out the season

Carson Wentz was once a franchise QB for the Philadelphia Eagles. He has also played for the Indianapolis Colts, Washington Commanders and Los Angeles Rams.

With the Rams, Carson experienced a short resurgence last season. In a Week 18 clash with the San Francisco 49ers, he threw for two touchdowns and rushed for another.

Now, cut to the 2024-25 season's Week 18 game, he has a chance to replicate that magic in Kansas City. With Patrick Mahomes nursing minor aches, the timing feels masterful.

Meanwhile, Mahomes has shown nothing but support for Reid’s decision.

"I'll prepare regardless, either way," Mahomes said. "Denver is probably going to be a playoff team regardless, so I'm going to prepare for them like I'm going to start and if Coach wants me to go out there and play, I'll go out there and play. If he doesn't, I'll sit back. I have full trust that Coach Reid knows what he's doing, and he's done it for a long time."

All eyes will be on the former No. 2 overall pick. With only two passing attempts this season, his caliber will be tested against the Broncos defense.