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Chiefs Must Re-Sign Pending FA After Massive Performance Against Browns

Mike Caliendo was tremendous in his first career NFL start.

By Joe Summers

Nov 17, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid walks onto the field prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Nov 17, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid walks onto the field prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images / Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
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One Chiefs player shined in a massive way during Sunday's win over the Browns, making a strong argument that he should stick around following this season.

Second-year guard Mike Caliendo had his first NFL start as Joe Thuney slid over to left tackle, performing admirably despite Patrick Mahomes suffering an ankle injury in the fourth quarter. We don't yet know if he'll start again on Saturday against the Texans, but the Chiefs now know that Caliendo can play when necessary.

He's a pending free agent and considering how much Kansas City's offensive line has struggled, Caliendo made himself a strong case to earn another contract with the two-time defending Super Bowl champions.

Chiefs G Mike Caliendo Has Excellent Game vs. Browns in Week 15

Despite being on an offensive line with All-Pro players, Caliendo was arguably the unit's best pass protector. Not only did his performance show that Andy Reid can trust him, but it also could help solve the left tackle issue should D.J. Humphries' injury remain a problem.

Star right guard Trey Smith is a pending free agent as well. Should Caliendo continue to perform well, perhaps he becomes next year's starter on that side if the Chiefs let Smith walk. At the very least, his ability to play multiple positions provides a huge boost to the depth of the line as a whole.

Originally an undrafted free agent out of Western Michigan, Caliendo is now facing perhaps the most important stretch of football in his life. Humphries didn't practice on Tuesday, likely meaning the Chiefs are leaning toward sitting him another week. If that's the case, Caliendo should stay in the starting lineup.

Especially with Mahomes banged up, offensive line is the most important unit on the team right now. Protecting Mahomes for the playoffs is truly all that matters at this point.

From Caliendo's perspective, he quickly transitioned from backup to key starter. Hopefully, he plays just as well in Week 16 that he did last Sunday.

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