Nussmeier’s slide was tied to a significant medical issue: a cyst on his spinal cord that impacted his oblique and overall performance, later revealed through NFL combine testing. Despite strong 2024 production (4,052 yards and 29 TDs in 13 games), his 2025 season fell to 1,927 yards and 12 TDs in nine games, with reports noting the cyst as the root cause. Industry observers noted that the NFL’s attention to his health was greater than medical teams’ assessments, fueling discussion about his draft stock.
The move could ultimately benefit the Chiefs if Nussmeier develops behind Mahomes and under coach Andy Reid. With Mahomes likely to miss time early in the 2026 season due to an ACL injury, Kansas City secured an experienced backup in Fields and now a potential long-term understudy in Nussmeier. If Nussmeier stays healthy, he may begin 2026 as QB2, earning a pathway to learn from Mahomes and Reid while the former remains in place, though long-term upside as a full-time starter remains unlikely given Mahomes’ trajectory.
Key takeaways:
– Chiefs solidify QB depth with Mahomes, Fields, and a lottery-ticket development project in Nussmeier.
– Nussmeier’s draft fall stemmed from a spinal cyst affecting performance, not a lack of ability.
– The 2026 scenario could see Nussmeier develop behind Mahomes, potentially transitioning to a permanent backup role as Mahomes ages and Fields’ one-year contract expires.
