Could fixing left tackle be a multi-year process for the KC Chiefs?
By John McCarty
The KC Chiefs need a left tackle and it might take some time for them to find a truly great option at the position.
After the signings of guards Joe Thuney and Kyle Long and also re-signing tackle Mike Remmers, the makeover of the Kansas City Chiefs‘ offensive line is nearly complete. Only the left tackle spot remains with question marks.
As the top free agent, Trent Williams returned to San Francisco, and with the Chiefs picking very late in the draft, where do they go in helping to address their left tackle spot? Does it possibly take two offseasons to full resolve and find the fixture for the left tackle spot in Kansas City?
The main thing the Chiefs must avoid doing is acting out of desperation in the first round.
It won’t end well.
While not a great option of finding a top-shelf free agent or having your pick of tackles in the draft, there are ways the Chiefs can make it work. I’ll explain how this process, while not as good as perhaps having the high enough pick to land an elite tackle, can help secure multiple positions.
This is important and will mention it now before we proceed — The Chiefs don’t need another offensive guard. They don’t need a right tackle. They likely don’t need a center. They need a left tackle. Just because a player is a tackle doesn’t mean they fit what the Chiefs need.
(Two names linked to the Chiefs (Jayen Mayfield and Tevin Jenkins) are right tackles. While they are intriguing prospects, using first-round picks on them would not make a lot of sense)
Okay, so we’re off. What is my multi-year program to fix the Chiefs’ left tackle position?
Martinas Rankin could be an option at left tackle.
Martinas Rankin played left tackle in college and played there against the Chargers in the last game of the 2020 season. He is nothing spectacular, but could he be passable, considering the interior of the line has been strengthened?
Maybe.
Between coaching and reps, could he be average?
This isn’t the best option moving forward, but again, this could be a two-year process for the Chiefs.