Fantastic performances from quarterback Shane Buechele have headlined the first two preseason games for the Kansas City Chiefs. Buechele has emerged as a serious contender for the backup quarterback spot behind Patrick Mahomes.
Mahomes has had the luxury of veteran quarterback Chad Henne as his backup for years, but following his retirement, the spot is up for grabs. Buechele is in his third season with the Chiefs, spending the first two years on the practice squad. Buechele spoke highly of the reigning MVP’s influence on his improving game during Wednesday’s press conference.
“It’s not tough being in that room, but you gotta take what Pat (Patrick Mahomes) does, and put a little bit to your game and also let him do what he does,” Buechele explained. “He’s the best in the league at what he does. So, definitely his leadership style, I think that gets kind of caught up in all the behind-the-back passes and deep throws scramble drills.
“The way he leads a football team is special. And so I see that. And then, just different ways and protections, he’s super smart. I think that’s another thing that gets overlooked. So just his knowledge of the offense, the way he carries himself and carries this team, is definitely something that I’ve taken from him. As the older brother, I’d say in the room.”
The Chiefs signed veteran Blaine Gabbert during the offseason for the backup role, but Buechele has stepped up in the preseason to make it a competition. Mahomes’ mentality has brushed off Buechele, who would go on to explain his daily focus.
“I mean, he’s one of the most competitive people I’ve ever been around,” Buechele said. “And he takes that, I mean, all of the accomplishments that he had last year. And that’s, that’s in the past. And he’ll tell you that it’s a new year, and he’s looking forward to this year. And we all are. Yeah, last year was great. But this is a new year, and we’re going to try to accomplish the same thing and more.”