The Kansas City Chiefs are steeling themselves for a pivotal offseason driven largely by their underwhelming performance in Super Bowl LIX, during which the team’s inability to protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes resulted in six sacks against the Philadelphia Eagles. This inadequacy in the offensive line has led to a clear strategic imperative as the Chiefs set their sights on the upcoming scouting combine and the 2025 NFL Draft. The current state of the Chiefs’ left tackle position is far from stable, prompting a critical analysis of their options moving forward.
In the wake of releasing veteran left tackle Eric Fisher after the 2020 season, Kansas City has been juggling players in a bid to fill the key role. Orlando Brown Jr. held the position for two seasons before opting for free agency and signing with the Cincinnati Bengals. The 2023 season saw Donovan Smith as the starter, despite coming off a year absent from the NFL. Although the team attempted to inject youth into their line by fielding Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris, both players struggled significantly and were ultimately benched. The experiment with veteran D.J. Humphries yielded no positive results either. The only semi-permanent fix came from moving guard Joe Thuney to tackle, but even the Chiefs viewed this arrangement as a temporary measure rather than a long-term solution.
With the absence of a steadfast left tackle on their roster, the Chiefs face considerable challenges as they prepare for the draft. Suamataia, who ended the season back at guard, and Morris, who may not have a place on the team moving forward, haven’t exactly inspired confidence. Additionally, Humphries enters free agency, further complicating the team’s plans.
The Chiefs are sitting on the No. 31 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a critical juncture where they hope to secure a competent left tackle. However, the pipeline for quality options appears to be running dry, making their scouting efforts all the more vital. The recent track record of drafting tackles hasn’t been promising; the team selected Suamataia in round two and Morris in round three in recent drafts, neither of whom has shown the ability to solidify the left tackle position.
General Manager Brett Veach has indicated that the Chiefs will not aggressively pursue external free agents this offseason, focusing instead on retaining their own upcoming free agents, including essential players like guard Trey Smith and wide receiver Hollywood Brown. This strategy underscores a commitment to building through the draft, which highlights the significance of their existing picks—four selections in the first three rounds, including an extra third-rounder obtained from the trade that sent cornerback L’Jarius Sneed to the Titans.
While shoring up the offensive line is crucial, the Chiefs have additional needs that must be addressed. Defensive reinforcements are necessary, particularly on the line, where established players like Chris Jones and Mike Danna are set to return. However, potential losses of free agents Charles Omenihu and Tershawn Wharton will require the Chiefs to seek additional talent to maintain their defensive intensity.
The cornerback position also requires attention, as the team is currently reliant on players like Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. The inconsistency in nickel coverage, particularly when Watson was sidelined with serious injuries, has been a recurring issue. Consequently, bolstering this unit could dramatically enhance the Chiefs’ defensive versatility and reliability.
The wide receiver corps remains a question mark as well. Despite the potential in last year’s first-round draft selection Xavier Worthy and the anticipated return of Rashee Rice, depth is an ongoing concern—especially should Hollywood Brown depart for another team. Furthermore, the running back position could benefit from an addition to take the pressure off Isiah Pacheco, while linebacking depth may also be tested if Bolton opts to seek greener pastures in free agency.
With the 2025 offseason fast approaching, the Kansas City Chiefs find themselves in a challenging yet opportune position. The necessity of building a solid offensive line—particularly at left tackle—pairs with the pressing needs at multiple positions across the roster. Crafting a team that can effectively compete requires keen strategy, intelligent draft decisions, and perhaps a few well-timed player acquisitions. If done correctly, the Chiefs could transform their perceived weaknesses into strengths and re-establish themselves as perennial Super Bowl contenders.