Chiefs’ Offensive Line Under Fire After Super Bowl Loss

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – After a lopsided Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, the Kansas City Chiefs‘ offensive line is facing intense scrutiny as the team navigates the offseason. Retired NFL great Andrew Whitworth offers his insights on what might lie ahead for the struggling unit.

Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, Whitworth, a former All-Pro tackle, voiced his concerns regarding the Chiefs’ protection of quarterback Patrick Mahomes during last season’s Super Bowl LIX. “It’s going to be interesting to see what they really decide to do with the offensive line,” Whitworth said. “At the tackle position… over the last couple years they’ve had some up and down play there.”

The Chiefs confronted significant challenges at the tackle position throughout the 2024 season, particularly when left tackle Joe Thuney was shifted to the edge to bolster struggling players. This decision exposed existing weaknesses across the offensive line, prompting Whitworth to question Thuney’s effectiveness in the role. “I was concerned with Joe Thuney, continuing to have to be the left tackle just because of a game like that,” he added.

In a recent move that raised eyebrows, Kansas City traded Thuney to the Chicago Bears for financial reasons, further deepening concerns about the team’s offensive line heading into 2025. With a reported $18 million over the salary cap, the Chiefs must grapple with the reality of rebuilding an offensive line that faltered during key moments of the Super Bowl.

Whitworth believes that allowing Thuney to remain at guard while addressing tackle needs in the draft or free agency would have been a smarter strategy. Currently, with right tackle Jawaan Taylor’s inconsistency and the benching of Wanya Morris last season, Kansas City is left with limited options. “They’re going to have to figure something out,” Whitworth said. “Can their young tackle step up? Or do they shift Jawaan Taylor to left tackle and find a new right tackle?”

Whitworth’s remarks resonate with Chiefs fans, echoing frustrations felt during Super Bowl LV, where the offensive line’s inability to protect Mahomes contributed to their defeat. “When they protect Mahomes, they are a really tough team to beat,” noted Whitworth. “That’s got to be their top priority right now.”

Meanwhile, Kansas City faces uncertainty surrounding the future of safety Justin Reid. With a cap hit of $14.2 million and free agency looming, Reid’s situation adds another variable to the Chiefs’ offseason strategy.

As the Chiefs gear up for the 2025 season, it is evident that addressing the offensive line will be crucial. The team’s ability to safeguard its franchise quarterback and sustain championship aspirations hinges on these upcoming decisions.