Andy Reid Reveals Why He Benched Chiefs Rookie Late vs. Bengals

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid spoke to the media on Monday following a 26-25 win over the Bengals, revealing why he benched rookie left tackle Kingsley Suamataia late in the game.

Suamataia still played a majority of the conteseet and has been in for 91% of the offensive snaps so far. He's the starting left tackle, though he's experienced some early growing pains through two weeks. Cincinnati star Trey Hendrickson routinely bullied Suamataia on Sunday and the rookie now has three holding penalties and two sacks allowed.

Reid noted that it was a learning experience for Suamataia while reiterating his belief in the second-round pick.

Andy Reid Reveals Why He Benched LT Kingsley Suamataia

"Kingsley, he’s going against arguably one of the best defensive ends in the league," Reid told reporters. "It would be a great experience that he could put away and learn from, but I ended up taking him out of the game. Sometimes, you've got to take a step back to take a step forward."

The Chiefs ultimately still won, though Patrick Mahomes threw for only 151 yards and was harassed all game long. Wanya Morris stepped in and nearly cost them the game with a late penalty that wiped out a catch by Rashee Rice, so the left tackle position is at least a bit worrisome. Reid, however, isn't phased.

"Listen, it’s a great learning experience," he continued. "Sometimes, if you get beat a couple of different times and you’re a young guy, you haven’t quite figured out the answers to the test there on how to fix it. Your coach talks to you, and you’ve got to settle down. That happens, so you go back, and you learn from it. Wanya will do the same. He did a nice job jumping in there, with the exception of penalties."

Reid refused to commit to either player as a starter in Week 3 against the Falcons, noting he'd speak with offensive line coach Andy Heck and watch the tape before making a decision.

Suamataia has a bright future in the league, yet this is still a concerning development to watch. Oddsmakers don't seem too concerned, with FanDuel Sportsbook making the Chiefs 3.5-point road favorites in Atlanta.

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