In a shocking and somewhat perplexing move, the Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly rejected a deal with a former star offensive tackle from the San Francisco 49ers, whose main job would have been to protect Patrick Mahomes’s blindside. This decision has left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads, especially given the Chiefs’ ongoing struggles with offensive line protection and Mahomes’ susceptibility to hits.
The move comes after months of speculation that the Chiefs would be aggressive in adding depth and talent to their offensive line, particularly after Mahomes has endured significant hits and injuries in recent seasons. Despite securing a Super Bowl victory in 2020 and maintaining an elite status in the NFL, Mahomes has taken more than his fair share of hits over the years. The most notable of these was during the 2021 postseason when Mahomes was sacked and pressured relentlessly in a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Super Bowl LV. As Mahomes continues to be one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, the need to protect his blindside has only become more critical.
The player in question is none other than former San Francisco 49ers tackle, who had been eyeing a deal with the Chiefs for several weeks. With an impressive resume, including multiple All-Pro honors and a key role in the 49ers’ Super Bowl run in 2019, this player seemed like a perfect fit for a team looking to bolster its protection for Mahomes. However, despite the clear need, the Chiefs organization declined to proceed with the deal.
The decision has sent shockwaves through the fanbase, with many questioning why the Chiefs wouldn’t move to secure a seasoned veteran who could provide stability on the offensive line. Mahomes, known for his incredible playmaking ability and improvisation, often finds himself running for his life due to breakdowns in protection, especially on the left side. Having a solid blindside protector is crucial for any quarterback, but particularly for Mahomes, who excels when he has time to let plays develop and go through his progressions.
Critics of the Chiefs’ decision point out that while they have made strides in recent years to improve their offensive line—such as acquiring Joe Thuney and drafting Creed Humphrey—the left tackle position remains a potential weak link. With several key players on the roster now entering their 30s or dealing with injury concerns, many feel that rejecting a deal with the veteran tackle was a missed opportunity to solidify Mahomes’ protection.
While some insiders suggest that the Chiefs may be holding out for a more cost-effective solution or may be targeting a different player in the upcoming draft, others are skeptical. The failure to strike a deal with the former 49ers tackle could have larger ramifications for the Chiefs’ Super Bowl hopes in the coming seasons. The team’s window to compete for championships with Mahomes at the helm is open but closing, and keeping him upright and healthy is of paramount importance.
For now, the Chiefs remain steadfast in their decision, but the question lingers: will this move come back to haunt them as Mahomes continues to take hits in a high-stakes NFL? Only time will tell if the decision to pass on the former 49ers tackle will prove to be a fatal misstep in the Chiefs’ championship pursuit.
Be the first to comment