Chiefs Admit Crippling Mistake in Early 2025 NFL Mock Draft

The ongoing position battle at left tackle between 2022 third-round pick Wanya Morris and 2023 second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia remains one of the biggest questions left for the Chiefs to answer as we approach training camp later this month.

While Kansas City hopes to identity its left tackle of the future, one new 2025 mock draft implies that player isn't yet on the roster. Matt Miller of ESPN published an early first-round mock for next year, slotting NC State tackle Anthony Belton to the Chiefs.

For as good as a prospect that Belton is, taking a third left tackle in the early rounds in as many years would represent a failure by Brett Veach. If neither Morris nor Suamataia will be the long-term starter, those picks feel like real wastes.

Chiefs Pick NC State LT Anthony Belton in 2025 NFL Mock Draft

"Despite how well the Chiefs have put together and managed their roster, there's a lack of answers at offensive tackle," Miller writes. "The Kingsley Suamataia pick in the second round likely solves one tackle spot, potentially replacing right tackle Jawaan Taylor, who struggled last season. Belton, a two-year starter at left tackle, allowed one sack last year and wows with his easy movement at 6-5 and 345 pounds. If the Chiefs like Suamataia on the right side (where most scouts pegged him pre-draft), then Belton could fit well at left tackle to give Patrick Mahomes more time in the pocket."

While selecting Belton could theoretically solve both tackle spots if Miller is correct that Suamataia can replace Taylor, the incumbent right tackle's contract makes that improbable at best.

The Chiefs are more or less stuck with Taylor for two more seasons, with the first realistic potential out coming after the 2025-26 season. Morris would already have three years with the club and Suamataia two. If neither of those players is going to make a real impact until after 2025, what was the point of drafting them?

I think it's far more likely that Suamataia will become the left tackle and Morris will serve as the primary backup at both positions.

Belton is a stellar prospect though I'm optimistic the Chiefs won't need to spend a draft pick on him. There's obviously a long way to go until the 2025 draft, though Veach will have to admit some serious mistakes if Miller's prediction proves accurate.

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