The Kansas City Chiefs have reason to feel great about the current depth at quarterback, having the league's best starter in Patrick Mahomes and a proven option in Gardner Minshew. Parting ways with Carson Wentz has appeared to be the right decision and arguably given the franchise a more reliable answer.
However, there is one former Kansas City backup who isn't having the same luck after a bit of a surprising release from the Buffalo Bills.
Bills are waiving QB Shane Buechele, who completed 25-of-30 passes for 278 yards, a TD, and added 20 rushing yards Saturday night.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 25, 2025
Former Chiefs Quarterback Shane Buechele Hits Unexpected Roadblock After Impressive Preseason
On Tuesday, Adam Schefter reported Shane Buechele had been cut, pointing out that the quarterback had thrown for 278 yards on Saturday, adding in 20 on the ground and a nice touchdown toss. It seems that this impressive performance wasn't factored in to the Bills' decision making as the franchise quickly turned the page on the veteran quarterback. For the Bills, it is understandable, even if it is a bit surprising.
Buechele spent the first two years of his career with the Chiefs after being signed as an undrafted free agent. It was an exciting development story for Kansas City, which eventually would move on to more proven options. This opened the door for Beuchele to join a hated rival in the Buffalo Bills. This is where the quarterback has played the last two years, spending a lot of time on the practice squad.
Still, the experience and time spent with the organization offered a clear advantage heading into the preseason. One the quarterback took full advantage of before surprisingly turning the page on the veteran backup. This further illustrates just how little preseason numbers typically matter.
Kansas City made the right move, turning the page on Buechele, but this doesn't mean a reunion couldn't be a consideration. After the strong preseason performance, offering the quarterback a practice squad role as the emergency option makes sense for both sides. The experience in the system is there, and the quarterback is in need of a new landing spot.
Being offered a chance to chase a Super Bowl ring and perhaps offer insight on a rival that will again be a playoff road block are clear motivators in the possible reunion. Regardless of where, the veteran shouldn't have an issue finding a landing spot after what was a strong preseason. Whether it is re-signing with one of his past franchises or a new landing spot, Buechele isn't going to sit in free agency for long.