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Chiefs Still Not Pleased With Critical Struggling Position Group

Sep 15, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid watches play agains the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Sep 15, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid watches play agains the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images / Denny Medley-Imagn Images
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The Chiefs have spent considerable resources over the last two years at left tackle, selecting Wanya Morris in the third-round of the 2023 NFL Draft and Kingsley Suamataia in the second round last year.

Despite the early selections, head coach Andy Reid doesn't sound overly pleased with the production. Speaking to the media on Wednesday, he confirmed that Morris would start left tackle once again on Sunday against the 49ers, but noted that both players can and need to improve over the course of the season.

Suamataia began the year as the starter, losing his job after struggles in Week 2 against Trey Hendrickson and the Bengals. Morris stabilized things a bit, though Kansas City still needs better play at one of the most pivotal positions on the roster.

Andy Reid Still Not Happy With Left Tackle Play

Reid emphasized patience with the two players, noting that he expects hiccups along the way. Morris admirably stepped in to start four games when Donovan Smith got hurt in 2023 but experienced some growing pains.

He looks much more comfortable this year with a 57.5 overall grade from Pro Football Focus compared to Suamataia's 41.2 mark. Neither are great numbers, yet the team is still undefeated and can reasonably be expected to improve over the course of the season.

It's Morris' job for now but Suamataia hopes to regain control before the final stretch. He won the starting spot out of training camp, so the coaching staff clearly believes in his ability.

With better draft pedigree and a superb athletic profile, Suamataia could protect Patrick Mahomes' blindside for years to come. He's got work to do and is capable of reaching his potential. Either way, Reid's comments make it clear that there's a long way to do before he hits that ceiling.


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