Chiefs Trying Unexpected Experiment on 3rd Day of Camp

The Chiefs are trying out a unique experiment on Day 3 of training camp, slotting 2020 third-round OT Lucas Niang at left guard in Joe Thuney's place as the latter recovers from the pectoral injury he suffered in the playoffs.

Niang has struggled to carve out a consistent role, though he's one of the more experienced linemen still on the team. He's a possible cut candidate following camp but could secure a spot if he proves he can play guard as well.

Kansas City lost versatile lineman Nick Allegretti to the Washington Commanders this offseason, so perhaps Niang could slide in as the primary backup at multiple positions.

Chiefs OT Lucas Niang Practicing at Guard in New Experiment

While most fans are focused on the left tackle battle between Wanya Morris and Kingsley Suamataia, how the depth chart shakes up behind the starters remains a point of intrigue.

Including Suamataia, the Chiefs drafted three offensive linemen in the 2024 NFL Draft. Niang has the chance to be the elder statesman of the backups, so this is a critical test for the former TCU standout.

The beginning of camp is a logical time to experiment and move guys around. If Niang has value at both tackle spots and as an interior backup, he'll likely wind up making the 53-man roster.

We've seen what can happen when linemen suffer injuries late in the season, notably costing the Chiefs in the Super Bowl against the Buccaneers. Kansas City withstood Thuney's injury last year but without Allegretti around anymore, the organization needs a backup it can trust.

Niang appears to have an inside track to claim that role, especially if he keeps up the solid play he showed on Tuesday.

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