Analyst Plays Down Much Hyped Chiefs Carson Wentz Signing, Calls Him the Ideal Backup Guy for KC’s Version of the Tush Push

In the latest twist of the NFL saga, the Kansas City Chiefs’ signing of Carson Wentz has been making waves. Though his moments on the field were few, Wentz made them count, especially in a crunch-time performance that came during the season’s final showdown against the San Francisco 49ers. Thrust into the spotlight as Stafford’s substitute, Wentz seized the opportunity and became an unexpected hero, steering the Rams to a nail-biting 21-20 win. His efforts in that game were crucial, helping to catapult the team into the coveted sixth seed spot in the NFC Playoffs.

However, not everyone is sold on it being a game-changer for the team. Nick Wright, known for his sharp sports commentary, has weighed in on the matter, offering a perspective that might not sit well with those hyping up Wentz’s arrival in Kansas City.

Carson Wentz can only be good in a limited role, says Nick Wright

Wright is candid about his skepticism towards Wentz, especially as a starter. “No, you go into a season as Carson Wentz, your starting back, you’re screwed,” he asserts. This blunt assessment stems from Wright’s previous critiques of Wentz, particularly during his time with the Colts.

The move to Kansas City, in Wright’s view, isn’t about making Wentz a frontline hero but rather finding an ideal backup, specifically for the Chiefs’ version of the “tush push.” His longstanding wish for the Chiefs to bolster their backup quarterback slot, particularly for goal-line sneaks. Patrick Mahomes has avoided making that play ever since he dislocated his patella in October 2019 while trying to do a QB sneak. But the Chiefs now seem to have found an answer in Wentz.

“Carson Wentz is going to be the quarterback sneak guy and the gold line guy. That’s perfect, great use of resources, costs no money, this is his specialty, I’m all for it.” By allocating Wentz to specialized tasks, the team can maximize his strengths without overburdening him with the full weight of a starter’s responsibilities.

But here’s why Wentz could play a more important role than Wright gives him credit for.

Wentz could make the Chiefs’ offense more unpredictable

Carson Wentz’s integration into the Chiefs’ lineup is more strategic than it may appear at first glance. Wentz’s signing with the Chiefs carries a special significance, especially considering Patrick Mahomes’ health and the strategic limitations it imposes.

The essence of Wentz’s value becomes particularly evident when considering the quarterback sneak. Wentz’s history with the sneak play, boasting an impressive 88.7% success rate over his career, positions him as an adept choice for such situations, surpassing the success rates of other notable quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts.

This strategic advantage is crucial for the Chiefs, who have experienced challenges in short-yardage scenarios over recent seasons. Moreover, Wentz’s ability to execute sneaks effectively adds a layer of unpredictability to the Chiefs’ offense, as his presence on the field does not unequivocally signal a sneak attempt, given his capability to execute passing plays. 

Wentz’s addition to the Chiefs is a calculated move that extends beyond mere backup support for Mahomes. It revitalizes a critical play in the Chiefs’ arsenal, enhancing their strategic flexibility and addressing a specific area of need within their offensive scheme.

Read More: Patrick Mahomes’ Andy Reid Respect Outshines Tom Brady and Bill Belichick Relationship Amidst ‘Dynasty Controversy’