Carson Wentz Gets a Chance to Shine as Chiefs Wrap Up Stellar Regular Season

The Kansas City Chiefs have dominated the 2024 NFL season, cementing their place as one of the league’s premier franchises. Riding the momentum of back-to-back Super Bowl victories, the Chiefs have compiled a remarkable 15-1 record with just one game left in the regular season. The team’s success has been a testament to their roster depth, strategic coaching, and the leadership of stars like Patrick Mahomes. But with Mahomes set to rest in Week 18, the spotlight shifts to an intriguing storyline: Carson Wentz under center.

Wentz’s Opportunity

Former Pro Bowl quarterback Carson Wentz will start for the Chiefs against the Denver Broncos, as Kansas City prioritizes health and rest for its starters heading into the playoffs. Wentz, once considered one of the league’s top quarterbacks, signed a one-year deal with Kansas City to serve as Mahomes’ backup. While his opportunities to play have been limited, Sunday’s game presents a chance for Wentz to remind the league of his capabilities.

For Wentz, this game is more than a chance to lead the Chiefs to their 16th win. It’s an audition for his future. Scheduled to hit free agency after the season, a strong performance against Denver could help Wentz attract interest from teams in need of a reliable veteran presence. “This is a golden opportunity for Carson Wentz to show he still has what it takes to compete at a high level,” said NFL analyst Peter Schrager on Good Morning Football.

CBS Sports Prediction

CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin has already speculated on Wentz’s next move, predicting he will sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers to back up Russell Wilson. The Steelers, who made a splash by adding Wilson and Justin Fields to their quarterback room this season, could be in need of a veteran backup if either Wilson or Fields departs in 2025. Benjamin’s reasoning is sound: Wentz brings experience, a high football IQ, and a steady hand that could be invaluable in a mentoring role.

What’s at Stake for Kansas City?

For the Chiefs, Sunday’s game against the Broncos is more about fine-tuning depth than chasing records. With Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and other key players resting, the focus will shift to evaluating younger talent and ensuring the team enters the playoffs healthy and prepared. The Chiefs have already clinched the top seed in the AFC, guaranteeing home-field advantage throughout the postseason.

Can Wentz Deliver?

The Broncos, despite a disappointing season, will likely aim to play spoiler. For Wentz, that’s all the more reason to bring his A-game. If he can lead a rested Chiefs squad to victory, it could reignite conversations about his value in the league. Once the face of the Philadelphia Eagles, Wentz has endured a challenging career trajectory, but Sunday offers a chance to write a new chapter.

Regardless of the outcome, the Chiefs’ season finale serves as a reminder of their dominance and depth. As Kansas City eyes another deep playoff run, they’ll do so with the confidence that their next-man-up mentality is alive and well. For Wentz, it’s a chance to prove he still belongs in the NFL spotlight—even if just for one more game.