Chiefs Returning Disappointing Starter to the Bench vs. Texans

The Kansas City Chiefs' left tackle position has been the subject of significant debate throughout the season. Once rookie Kingsley Suamataia and second-year swing tackle Wanya Morris struggled, the organization quickly realized it needed a more sustainable solution.

They acquired D.J. Humphries during the season with the idea that the former Pro Bowler would take over the starting role. He suffered an injury in his first game though, then Joe Thuney moved from guard to outside while Mike Caliendo replaced Thuney's original position.

While it seemed that starting Thuney and Caliendo instead of Humphries was the logical move, the Chiefs made that choice official by announcing that Humphries would remain on the bench against the Houston Texans during Saturday's Divisional Round.

Chiefs Reportedly Starting Joe Thuney at LT vs. Texans in Divisional Round

Though Thuney has made his name as an All-Pro guard and one of the best interior offensive linemen over the last decade, he's been pretty darned good at left tackle as well. Caliendo performed admirably inside, and it's more important to have quality play from Thuney on the outside than on the interior.

Humphries simply didn't have enough time to get comfortable with the line and Patrick Mahomes. Even when Humphries started in Week 18, he was playing alongside Carson Wentz. It's crucial to have reps with the guys you'll actually be playing with, and few offensive linemen are as familiar with Mahomes as Thuney is.

This is a major opportunity for Caliendo, who presumably will remain a starter for as long as the Chiefs stay alive in the playoffs. He's a pending free agent, so a stellar postseason could earn him millions in the coming months.

Regardless, this was the correct decision from Andy Reid and his staff. Putting Humphries on the field was too risky. After all, this exact same starting lineup beat the Texans in Week 16 and only allowed one sack. Why throw a wrench into the mix when you already know this unit can be effective?

The Chiefs are 8.5-point favorites at FanDuel Sportsbook with -490 odds on the moneyline, indicating it might not matter who plays tackle. Moving forward though, Kansas City will reap the benefits of trusting in Thuney and Caliendo.

More Kansas City Chiefs News:

Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.