The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a pivotal offseason following an unsettling Super Bowl LIX performance. After allowing quarterback Patrick Mahomes to be sacked six times—a manifestation of weakness along the offensive line—their current focus is undoubtedly on revamping this crucial unit. The team’s struggles have been compounded by a revolving door of left tackles since the departure of Eric Fisher, highlighting substantial deficiencies in roster management and player performance.
Last season, the Chiefs rolled through four different players at the left tackle position, which undeniably disrupted team cohesion. Orlando Brown Jr. served as a temporary solution for two seasons before his exit to the Cincinnati Bengals left Kansas City scrambling for stability. In 2023, Donovan Smith filled the role, but his return to the NFL after a year’s absence proved unsuccessful. The Chiefs also experimented with young talents Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris, only to quickly watch them underperform and get benched. This chain of events raises questions about player evaluation and development strategies within the organization.
The Chiefs appear to have settled on veteran D.J. Humphries for a time, but again, he failed to deliver lasting results. Moving guard Joe Thuney to left tackle was an act of desperation rather than a calculated investment in long-term solutions. All signs suggest that the Chiefs do not have a reliable left tackle option currently within their ranks, further emphasizing the need for change in personnel strategy.
Draft Challenges and Opportunities
With the upcoming 2025 draft looming over them, the Chiefs find themselves in a vulnerable position. Holding the No. 31 pick, the likelihood of acquiring a quality left tackle is uncertain, particularly in a draft perceived to be lacking depth at this position. Previous efforts have seen them draft players like Suamataia and Morris quite early without reaping the expected benefits. This raises a stark question about the effectiveness of their scouting and drafting processes—are they missing key insights that would bring better talent into their system?
General Manager Brett Veach has acknowledged the team’s cautious approach towards free agency, as they aim to retain valuable players like guard Trey Smith and linebacker Nick Bolton. By being passive in the market, Kansas City is putting significant weight on their draft strategy, which complicates the situation even further. With four picks in the first three rounds—notably boosted by a third-round selection from the Tennessee Titans late last year—the opportunity to correct course is significant, but it must be executed with precision.
Pursuing Defensive Reinforcements
While evaluating offensive needs, the Chiefs cannot overlook defensive improvements. Their current roster boasts talents like Chris Jones and George Karlaftis, but the looming free agency departures of Charles Omenihu and Tershawn Wharton present another dilemma. The defense, which already struggled at times last season, could be significantly weakened if key players leave. Kansas City must prioritize not just filling gaps, but also ensuring their defensive unit remains robust.
Addressing issues in cornerback depth is equally pressing. Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson provide a solid base, but injuries last season exposed a vulnerability in nickel coverage that the Chiefs cannot afford to overlook. Their inability to establish reliable coverage solutions will only serve to undermine their defensive strategies in high-stakes situations.
Beyond the offensive line, further adjustments are vital for the Chiefs’ offensive depth. Key players like Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice provide a glimmer of hope at wide receiver, but depth remains a concern. If Hollywood Brown departs, the offensive arsenal could quickly diminish, leading to increased pressure on Mahomes.
Additionally, the search for a versatile running back is crucial to bolster Isiah Pacheco’s workload. A reliable backup could enhance the Chiefs’ offensive strategy, allowing for varied play-calling and reducing wear on their star tailback.
Tight end remains another area of concern, especially with Travis Kelce considering retirement as he approaches the age of 36. Despite his impressive 97 receptions last season, the dwindling productivity signals that the organization must start planning for the future.
The Kansas City Chiefs are at a crossroads that necessitates a meticulous, strategic approach to both the draft and free agency. With pressing needs on the offensive line, a focus on defensive improvements, and a quest for offensive depth, the upcoming offseason could define the team’s trajectory for years to come. Addressing these core issues will be crucial as the franchise looks toward reclaiming its position among the NFL elite.