Quarterback Carson Wentz was introduced to the media as a Kansas City Chief for the first time on Thursday.
The Chiefs and Wentz agreed to a one-year contract earlier this week. Wentz will play second fiddle to starter Patrick Mahomes after being Matthew Stafford's backup for the Los Angeles Rams last season. The Chiefs are Wentz's fourth team in as many years after spending five seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.
During his time speaking with media, Wentz was asked if he believes the time he spent with Jacksonville Jaguars coach Doug Pederson while the two were together in Philadelphia will help him pick up the Chiefs' offense quickly. Pederson was Andy Reid's offensive coordinator from 2013-2015.
“I don’t know the X’s and O’s yet," Wentz said. "I see them from afar watching film or watching games whenever I’d see the Chiefs on film. I would image it will make sense to me pretty quick because of that, being five years with coach Pederson in that offense. Obviously, there is always little intricacies and differences, but I think it will make sense to me and resonate with me pretty quickly. That part I am looking forward to, the last couple of years’ offenses have been very different that I’ve been in, so I’ve gotten to see a lot, experience a lot. I think this one will kind of hit home so to speak and be the most familiar for me over the last couple of years.”
The 31-year-old veteran Wentz seems likely to close out his career as a high-end backup, but it's not impossible that he could get another shot at being a starter if he sees extended playing time and performs well. It's easy to forget that Wentz played some great ball in Philly and was an MVP candidate in 2017.
Wentz's best years coming while playing for Pederson isn't a coincidence. Pederson is known for getting the most out of his quarterbacks, just like his mentor Reid. Not only should Wentz have little trouble grasping the playbook in a timely manner, but his skillset should also shine in Reid's system.
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