Chiefs Rookie Gets Big Opportunity After Scary Week 10 Injury
By Joe Summers
Chiefs LT Wanya Morris suffered a concerning knee injury in the first quarter of Kansas City's Week 10 matchup with the Denver Broncos, giving second-round rookie Kingsley Suamataia an opportunity to seize the starting role for the rest of the year.
The Broncos built an early lead over the Chiefs with a smothering defense and impressive offense, though Morris' injury is the biggest storyline of the first half.
He's officially questionable to return and despite his struggles, the coaching staff has believed he's the best option. Suamataia is suddenly one of the most important players on the offense. Here's hoping it goes better this time than in the first couple of weeks of the season.
Chiefs Lose LT Wanya Morris to Injury vs. Broncos
Wanya Morris down at the end of he play. Kingley Suamataia coming into the game. Hard to tell the nature of the injury but he's liming off the field very slowly. Andy Reid came out to check on him and offense took a knee around him.
— Matt Derrick (@mattderrick) November 10, 2024
His teammates' reaction to the injury suggests it's potentially serious. Morris was never considered to be the long-term answer at left tackle, though his injury immediately after the trade deadline puts the Chiefs in a tough spot.
2023 starter Donovan Smith is still a free agent. He could be a "break glass in case of emergency" option but the coaching staff would prefer that Suamataia shows enough to remain the starter. He has tremendous potential, yet his technique still needs improvements to reach his ceiling.
Kingsley Suamataia needs to seize this left tackle job and never look back. Hopefully, some time watching from the sideline has helped him become more comfortable and confident.
— Adam Best (@Arrowhead_Adam) November 10, 2024
Protecting Patrick Mahomes is of the utmost importance, especially after he suffered another ankle injury last week. Suamataia was quickly beat on his first play but settled in over time. If he can protect Mahomes and hold his own, he'll likely remain the starter for the year.
There isn't an official word on the exact nature of Morris' injury. Regardless, here's hoping he's okay and able to suit up in Week 11 against the Bills.
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