Perhaps the biggest question surrounding the Chiefs entering the playoffs is what the left side of the offensive line will look like. Kansas City has started four different players at left tackle this year and doesn’t seem to have a firm answer yet as to who will start in the Divisional Round.
Speaking to the media on Friday before Wild Card Weekend, head coach Andy Reid noted that he hadn’t yet decided who will start at left tackle and guard next weekend.
D.J. Humphries started in Week 18 and struggled. He’s dealt with injuries since being signed but it sounds like he still has a chance to be the starter moving forward. Whether or not that’s a good idea remains to be seen.
#Chiefs HC Andy Reid on D.J. Humphries at left tackle: “I thought D.J. did a pretty good job. A few plays he’d like to have back. He’s heading in the right direction for sure. I haven’t made any decisions on that (who will be the starter for the playoffs).”
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) January 10, 2025
It sounds like Reid would prefer that Humphries starts at left tackle and Joe Thuney at left guard, though the former Pro Bowler ranks just 128th out of 141 qualified players at Pro Football Focus. The Chiefs found success moving Thuney outside and putting Mike Caliendo at guard, so the safest option likely remains trotting that lineup out there.
Kansas City will face excellent defensive fronts in the postseason. Humphries simply hasn’t had enough reps to get comfortable and the playoffs are no time for experimentation. The Chiefs are favored to win the AFC with the second-best odds to win the Super Bowl (+375) at FanDuel Sportsbook, though poor offensive line play could derail matters.
Patrick Mahomes has twice suffered injuries during the postseason and while he still led the team to championships, all involved want to keep him upright. Humphries hasn’t earned the team’s trust so even if he is fully healthy, fans are justifiably worried.
The Chiefs have extended practice time to evaluate Humphries and make their decision. Trey Smith, Jawaan Taylor, and Creed Humphrey are starting regardless, as is Joe Thuney, though it remains to be seen exactly where he’ll line up.
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