Who is kc chiefs backup quarterback

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Last updated: April 17, 2026

Quick Answer: As of the 2024 NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs' backup quarterback is Skyy Moore, though the primary backup behind Patrick Mahomes is actually veteran quarterback Carson Wentz, signed in August 2024. Chad Henne remains on the roster as the third-string quarterback, continuing his role since 2018.

Key Facts

Carson Wentz signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in August 2024 as the primary backup to Patrick Mahomes
Chad Henne has served as Chiefs' backup quarterback since 2018 and remains on the 2024 roster
Skyy Moore is a wide receiver, not a quarterback, clarifying a common misconception
Patrick Mahomes is the undisputed starting QB, having led the Chiefs to three Super Bowl appearances since 2019
Chad Henne, at age 38 in 2024, provides veteran depth with over 15 years of NFL experience

Overview

The Kansas City Chiefs entered the 2024 NFL season with Patrick Mahomes firmly established as the starting quarterback, fresh off leading the team to Super Bowl LVIII victory in February 2024. With Mahomes under contract through 2031, the team prioritized reliable depth at the quarterback position during the offseason.

The backup quarterback role has evolved significantly since the departure of Matt Moore and the retirement of Alex Smith. The Chiefs now rely on a mix of veteran experience and new signings to ensure continuity behind their franchise quarterback.

Carson Wentz signed a one-year deal with the Chiefs in August 2024 after being released by the Los Angeles Rams, becoming the immediate primary backup to Mahomes.
Chad Henne, age 38, has been the Chiefs' backup since 2018 and remains on the roster in 2024, providing critical institutional knowledge and emergency depth.
Wentz brings eight seasons of NFL starting experience, having played for the Eagles, Colts, and Rams, with a career record of 38–33–1 as a starter.
Despite a viral social media mix-up, Skyy Moore is a wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, not a Chiefs quarterback, highlighting the need for accurate player tracking.
The Chiefs waived Ben DiNucci in August 2024, leaving Wentz and Henne as the only two quarterbacks on the active roster behind Mahomes.

How It Works

The NFL quarterback depth chart operates on a tiered system, with starters, backups, and practice squad players fulfilling distinct roles during the season. Each team carries at least two quarterbacks on the active roster, with the backup expected to be game-ready at short notice.

Starting Quarterback: Patrick Mahomes holds this role, having started every regular and postseason game since 2018, with a 123–41 win-loss record as a starter through 2023.
Primary Backup: Carson Wentz is now responsible for preparing as if he were a starter, attending all QB meetings and practicing with the second team daily.
Emergency Backup: Chad Henne, though third-string, remains active due to his familiarity with the Chiefs' offense and experience in high-pressure situations.
Injury Contingency: If Mahomes is injured, Wentz would start immediately; Henne would back him up, replicating the 2020 AFC Championship scenario.
Practice Squad QB: The Chiefs may sign a developmental quarterback to the practice squad, though none were active as of the 2024 training camp roster.
Game Day Roster Rules: NFL teams must list two active quarterbacks on game day, with a third allowed only if one is designated as an emergency QB.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the Chiefs' current quarterback depth chart as of the 2024 season:

Player	Role	Age (2024)	NFL Experience	Chiefs Tenure
Patrick Mahomes	Starter	28	7 seasons (2018–2024)	2017–present
Carson Wentz	Primary Backup	31	8 seasons (2016–2023)	2024–present
Chad Henne	Emergency Backup	38	16 seasons (2008–2023)	2018–present
Skyy Moore	Not a QB	23	3 seasons (WR)	N/A
Ben DiNucci	Waived	27	4 seasons (2020–2023)	2024 (training camp only)

This table clarifies misconceptions and provides a factual snapshot of the Chiefs' quarterback situation. While social media rumors occasionally misidentify players like Skyy Moore as quarterbacks, official rosters confirm Wentz and Henne as the only backup options behind Mahomes in 2024.

Why It Matters

Quarterback depth is crucial in the NFL, especially for a team with Super Bowl aspirations like the Chiefs. A reliable backup ensures continuity and minimizes disruption if the starter is injured.

Carson Wentz’s signing provides the Chiefs with a proven starter who has led teams to the playoffs, including a NFC Championship appearance in 2017.
Chad Henne’s presence offers stability, having played in 14 postseason games with the Chiefs, including the 2020 AFC Championship win.
The Chiefs avoided relying solely on young, unproven QBs, reducing risk during a championship window still centered on Mahomes.
Wentz’s familiarity with Andy Reid’s offensive concepts from his Eagles days accelerates his integration into the Chiefs’ system.
Having two experienced backups enhances practice quality, pushing Mahomes and improving overall team readiness.
The decision reflects a broader NFL trend: veteran backups over developmental projects for teams in win-now mode.

With the 2024 season underway, the Chiefs’ quarterback depth chart balances experience, readiness, and strategic foresight, ensuring they remain competitive even in the face of unexpected injuries.