Just one week after three-time MVP Patrick Mahomes was sidelined with a torn ACL and LCL, his replacement, Gardner Minshew, suffered what the team fears is a similar fate.
The Injury: A Devastating Blow
Minshew appeared to tweak his left knee during an 8-yard scramble on the Chiefs' opening drive. While the veteran "grit it out" for three more possessions, his mobility was visibly compromised, and his throws lacked their usual zip. He was eventually pulled in the second quarter and did not return.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported late Sunday that initial tests lead the Chiefs to believe Minshew has suffered a torn ACL. He is scheduled for an MRI today to confirm the severity, but the mood in the Kansas City locker room was somber.
"It's definitely an unprecedented situation," said defensive tackle Chris Jones. "But as Coach Reid says, we work with who we got."
Titans End Historic Home Drought
While the Chiefs' season unravels, the Titans (3-12) found a reason to celebrate. The 26-9 victory snapped an 11-game home losing streak that dated back to November 2024.
Rookie quarterback Cam Ward delivered arguably his best performance of the season, completing 21-of-28 passes for 228 yards and two touchdowns. Ward’s poise was the catalyst for a Titans offense that controlled the tempo from the second quarter onward.
Key Game Notes:
• Defense Dominates: Jeffery Simmons sparked the Titans early, tackling Kareem Hunt in the end zone for a safety.
• The Replacement: With Minshew out, the Chiefs turned to Chris Oladokun, who was signed from the practice squad only 24 hours prior. Oladokun managed 111 passing yards but was sacked four times.
• Ground Game: Tony Pollard led the Titans' rushing attack with 102 yards, marking his third consecutive 100-yard game.
What’s Next for Kansas City?
The 6-9 Chiefs are now officially eliminated from postseason contention and face a grueling short week. They are scheduled to host the Denver Broncos on Christmas Day.
With Mahomes and Minshew both likely out for the remainder of the year—and possibly the start of 2026—the Chiefs find themselves in the uncharacteristic position of scouting for a quarterback in the draft while managing a roster decimated by injuries to stars like Rashee Rice and Jawaan Taylor.