The Kansas City Chiefs won their eighth straight AFC West title this season. But, this year’s team is nothing like the teams in the past that have been led by Andy Reid and in most recent seasons, Patrick Mahomes.
The 2023 Chiefs are the least effective offense that the team has had since that duo took over in 2018. A lot of the focus has been on the struggles of the wide receiver group, as rookie Rashee Rice has emerged as the only reliable pass catcher at the position.
Tight end Travis Kelce remains an excellent player, but he is beginning to show some wear and tear as well. He is lacking the same explosiveness he showed in years past and has been prone to drops at times.
NFL News & Rumors: Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes, Mike Tannenbaum, Kansas City Chiefs Updates
Despite those struggles, the Chiefs still possess an offense that numerous teams around the NFL would take. While it doesn’t live up to their lofty standard, Kansas is 12th in points scored and ninth in yardage gained.
While many people would say adding more pass catchers to the mix is their No. 1 priority this offseason, a former NFL executive believes there is a more pressing need on the roster. Mike Tannenbaum, speaking on behalf of The 33rd Team, believes offensive tackle is the need the Chiefs have to address most in the offseason.
“I think their wide receivers are a work in progress, from Skyy Moore a year ago, Rashee Rice, to Kadarius Toney, but to me, their big issue is offensive tackle point to last week they led the league with penalties,” said Tannenbaum. “Right now, they’re just not playing great, between Donovan Smith and Jawaan Taylor. To me, that’s the bigger concern, and when they have to go on the road for playoff games, I think that’s going to be exacerbated.” (H/T ChiefsWire)
For the first time in years, if the Chiefs are going to advance to the Super Bowl, they are going to have to win a game on the road in the postseason. The playoffs in the AFC won’t go through Arrowhead this year, instead, it will go through M&T Bank Stadium, home of the Baltimore Ravens.
NFL News & Rumors: Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes, Mike Tannenbaum, Kansas City Chiefs Updates
Struggles along the offensive line have undone the Chiefs in previous seasons. When they faced off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Super Bowl three years ago, Mahomes was under siege as they couldn’t block anyone.
If those struggles pop up again in the coming weeks, Kansas City will head home sooner than they anticipated. While the wide receiver group does need work as well, if the Chiefs cannot protect Mahomes, it won’t matter who he is targeting in the passing game.
Want the latest NFL analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click here. Interested in reading storylines and analysis about the NBA? Check out our partner NBA Analysis Network.
