Chiefs’ decision to use Justin Fields backfires horribly

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Chiefs’ decision to use Justin Fields backfires horribly

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Nov 8, 2026 1:58 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs decided to use backup quarterback Justin Fields in a short-yardage situation on Sunday, and it went about as poorly as they could have imagined.

Fields was brought into Sunday’s game against the New York Jets, his former team, on a 3rd and 1 at the Chiefs’ 34-yard line during the first quarter at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. His assignment was simple: sneak the ball for a first down and keep the drive alive so Patrick Mahomes could re-enter the contest.

Not only did Fields fail to reach the marker, but he fumbled, giving the Jets the ball deep in Kansas City territory.

The Chiefs FINALLY attempt a QB sneak, subbing in Justin Fields… – stopped short – ruled to have lost a fumble after Jets challenge CBS | Paramount+ https://t.co/QvtjSWmjDz
— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) November 8, 2026

The Chiefs traded for Fields in the offseason, and not just to have a reliable backup for Mahomes. The team had some packages for him and wanted to use him in short-yardage situations. Fans had been eager to see Fields in this sort of situation all year, but this was the first time he was afforded the opportunity.

Fields had only played one snap before this play this season. The Chiefs were unquestionably hoping this would go a lot differently.

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