Andy Reid Labels Justin Fields a ‘Starting Quarterback’ Amidst Criticism

Justin Fields could start at quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs until Patrick Mahomes returns to play.

Andy Reid Labels Justin Fields a ‘Starting Quarterback’ Amidst Criticism

Justin Fields and Andy Reid (Image via Dov Kleiman/X/Imago)

In Short
  • Andy Reid expresses confidence in Justin Fields as a legitimate starting quarterback for the Chiefs.
  • The Chiefs traded a sixth-round pick to acquire Fields after Gardner Minshew left for the Cardinals.
  • Fields aims to prove himself as either a starting or relevant backup quarterback while preparing for the season.

When it was announced that the Kansas City Chiefs were signing Justin Fields to back up Patrick Mahomes, many were confused as to why they were doing so.

The franchise had a capable backup in Gardner Minshew, but he has decided to take his chance of possibly being the starting quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals this season.

Minshew could have done the same with the Chiefs, and may have even had a good run until Mahomes returned. That may have turned into a bigger contract offer in the 2027 season.

But the fact that the veteran left, and the Chiefs had to pivot to Justin Fields, did not make sense. Analysts and fans felt that the latter’s struggles with the New York Jets were enough indication that he cannot be trusted with the ball in his hands.

The Ohio State alum had a chance to make the starting quarterback role his own, but failed to do so. After open criticism from the owner and others, many wondered what the Chiefs saw in him.

He’s a legitimate quarterback, a starting quarterback in the NFL, and we are lucky enough to have him here. If that’s the role that he plays early in the season, we have full confidence he can do a great job with that.

Andy Reid said

The Chiefs head coach believes that Justin Fields is a starting quarterback. That is why the team felt it necessary to send a sixth-round pick to trade for him.

Justin Fields preparing to start for the Chiefs

While the football continues to argue whether signing Justin Fields was a good decision or not, the quarterback is busy preparing for life, both as a possible starter and as a backup.

Justin Fields ready to play any role
Justin Fields ready to play any role (Image via GameBlazers/X)

Regardless of me starting or being a backup, I attack the day the same way. My goal is to get better each and every day anyway I can… My mindset going into each day doesn’t change.

Justin Fields told Sports Radio 810 WHB

Patrick Mahomes is scheduled to return to play sometime after Week 3 of the upcoming season. If the pace of his recovery increases, then he could return sooner.

That is why Fields is keeping an open mind about what his role will be when he takes to the field in early September. The 27-year-old signal caller knows he might get a few games before Mahomes returns.

But in those few games, he is aware that he has to either prove that he deserves another shot at the starting quarterback spot. Or, he can prove that he has what it takes to be a relevant backup quarterback.

Justin Fields impressed with Chiefs’ winning culture

When Justin Fields was with the New York Jets, the constant losing and corresponding criticism made it tough for him. At one point, he even became emotional and questioned his abilities.

Now, with the Kansas City Chiefs, he at least will not have to face that much noise. But what sticks out to him most is the culture prevalent at Arrowhead Stadium and the team’s facilities.

Just the winning, to be honest, finding ways to win. Just having that culture, similar to when I was in Pittsburgh, just that winning mindset. Even me being here for two days, you can tell why that happens.

Justin Fields told reporters

The signal caller remarked that the last time he was part of such a culture was during his one-year stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He revealed that everyone that he has talked to at the Chiefs’ facilities has that collective mindset of winning, and that is what impressed him.

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