Gardner Minshew continues to impress as Kansas City’s top backup, pairing quickly with Robert Tonyan for a touchdown and running the offense with confidence in Friday’s action. He stressed the importance of clear communication and operating smoothly with the first-team group as reps mount.

Through two preseason showcases, Minshew sits at 13 of 18 for 124 yards with a touchdown and a rushing score, demonstrating comfort in KC’s schemes behind Mahomes. Tonyan has quickly become his most reliable target, a smart, space-aware playmaker who helps stabilize the offense and adds fantasy-friendly upside for late-round tight ends and deep-league stash options.

Tonyan’s savvy route-running and feel for space give Minshew a trustworthy safety valve, which could translate to steady weekly production if this chemistry holds into the regular season. In fantasy terms, Minshew could become a speculative two-quarterback option in deeper leagues if Mahomes misses time, while Tonyan’s role might elevate him to a streamer-tier TE in Kansas City’s dynamic attack.