The Kansas City Chiefs are in a crucial phase of their team-building process as they recover from their disappointing performance in Super Bowl LIX, where they faced the Philadelphia Eagles. A glaring weakness in their offensive line has become a primary focus for the organization, especially after allowing star quarterback Patrick Mahomes to endure six sacks during that game. With the upcoming scouting combine on the horizon, the Chiefs are poised to recalibrate their roster with a strong emphasis on enhancing their offensive protection.
The Chiefs’ troubles began when they released long-time left tackle Eric Fisher after the 2020 season, initiating a puzzling carousel of players in that critical position. Orlando Brown Jr. filled the role for two seasons but eventually departed for the Cincinnati Bengals in free agency, prompting Kansas City to scramble for a replacement. Their attempts at maintaining stability saw Donovan Smith take the lead in 2023, yet he was a last-minute addition, having spent the previous season out of the league.
The franchise turned to younger talents Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris in 2024, but both struggled to perform at the required level, leading to their eventual benching. A desperate attempt to find a quick fix saw guard Joe Thuney temporarily assume the left tackle duties, although the team never perceived him as a long-term solution to their woes. As of now, it seems highly improbable that the next long-term starter at left tackle lies within the current roster, highlighting an urgent need for a foundational piece as they head into the upcoming draft.
The Draft: A Critical Opportunity
Armed with the 31st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Chiefs face a challenging task. The draft class is not particularly rich in prospects for offensive tackles, which adds to the urgency of finding a suitable candidate. In past years, their selections of Suamataia and Morris did not yield the desired outcomes, illustrating the difficulty in addressing this vulnerability through the draft. General manager Brett Veach’s cautious approach to trades reveals a commitment to building a roster that emphasizes rookie contributions rather than relying heavily on free agents.
The Chiefs will enter the draft with a notable advantage, holding four picks within the first three rounds, including an extra third-round selection acquired from the Tennessee Titans. This presents an opportunity for the organization to fortify multiple positions, primarily targeting the offensive line to ensure Mahomes has the protection he requires to lead effectively.
While bolstering the offensive line remains a focal point, Kansas City must also address several other critical areas on defense. The potential departure of key players such as Charles Omenihu and Tershawn Wharton in free agency leaves the defensive line in a precarious position. Although they have reliable stalwarts like Chris Jones and Mike Danna, the Chiefs would greatly benefit from depth and fresh talent. Young first-round picks like George Karlaftis and Felix Anudike-Uzomah offer hope, but the team must look to add more than just stopgap players amid uncertain free agency prospects.
Furthermore, the cornerback position requires attention, particularly considering the struggles they encountered with nickel coverage. The uncertainty surrounding Jaylen Watson’s injury history adds another layer of complexity, as he missed a significant portion of the season. The Chiefs must explore options for developing reliable backup corners capable of stepping up when needed.
Offensive Weaponry: Enhancing Depth and Versatility
Offensively, while there’s reassurance with talents such as Xavier Worthy and a hopeful return from Rashee Rice, the lack of depth looms as a concern, especially if wideout Hollywood Brown joins the list of departing free agents. The Chiefs must navigate this precarious situation by scouting for versatile receivers who can both alleviate pressure on Mahomes and stretch opposing defenses.
Moreover, stability at tight end becomes a pressing issue, too, as veteran Travis Kelce approaches a critical juncture in his career with the prospect of retirement looming. Kelce’s performance dipped last season, as evidenced by his decline in yardage and touchdowns. The Chiefs should actively seek talented replacements who can take the mantle, ensuring that Mahomes maintains a reliable set of targets by his side as the core roster evolves.
As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for the upcoming season, a multifaceted strategy must be deployed to rectify previous weaknesses. The offensive line needs revitalization, while depth must be addressed across various positions. The team’s successes will largely hinge upon their ability to make prudent draft choices and potential free-agency signings. In the ever-competitive landscape of the NFL, maintaining the prowess to protect their quarterback and build a cohesive roster is paramount as they move forward.
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