Chiefs Rookie Possibly Pulling Away in Starting Position Battle

The left tackle battle is likely the most significant storyling at training camp for the Chiefs, who must decide if 2023 third-round pick Wanya Morris or 2024 second-rounder Kingsley Suamataia will protect Patrick Mahomes' blindside.

It's been called the team's biggest concern entering the new year, though it appears the rookie out of BYU might be pulling ahead. Morris has a year of experience and started several games in 2023 when Donovan Smith went down, though Suamataia is the player drawing first-team reps.

Suamataia had the prospect profile of a good if not great, starting tackle. He's got work to do before he officially earns the job, though the cousin of All-Pro Penei Sewell is off to a strong start.

Kingsley Suamataia Looks Like Front-Runner for Left Tackle Job

Morris took some reps with the first team early on but Suamataia has held onto the starting spot for several practices. It's possible the coaching staff just wants to give the rookie an extended look. It's also possible this was the plan all along.

That the Chiefs selected Suamataia with a high pick at all indicates a willingness or even desire to supplant Morris. He was effective in his four starts last season, receiving solid Pro Football Focus pass-blocking grades while allowing two sacks.

Andy Reid said he's comfortable with either player. I believe that to be true, though Reid might be a lot more comfortable with Suamataia starting and Morris serving as a backup at both tackle positions. The Chiefs know how damaging offensive line injuries can be, so rostering quality depth pieces is wise.

Should the organization eventually move on from Jawaan Taylor at right tackle, Morris could be a logical candidate to win that job.

Suamataia's rare blend of size, quickness, and power make him a perfect fit for Reid's offense. He allowed just two sacks total over 1,276 snaps during his final two seasons at BYU. If he can bring that level of consistency to Kansas City, he'll be the Chiefs' left tackle for the next half-decade or more.

More Kansas City Chiefs News: