Chiefs' Biggest 'Red Flag' Aimed At 'Unproven' Talent

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 11:04 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs will enter the 2025 season with a lot to prove after the Super Bowl debacle still front of mind for some.

With several roster changes that include multiple new pieces along the offensive line, many are dubious as to what the Chiefs, who still have Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid, and Chris Jones, can be this upcoming season.

Yes, they are the defending AFC champs fresh off a 15-2 regular season record, but it seems that doesn't matter with the Super Bowl loss leaving a lasting impression.

For CBS Sports, the Chiefs have one big red flag on their roster, and it is relying on unproven talent along the offensive line.

"The Ravens just need their front to stay healthy," CBS Sports writes. "The Chiefs, meanwhile, may or may not have a title-caliber line at all. That was clear as day in Super Bowl LIX, when the Philadelphia Eagles tore them to pieces, rendering Patrick Mahomes a nonfactor.

"Now All-Pro interior man Joe Thuney is gone, and two new faces occupy the present and/or future of left tackle, with rookie Josh Simmons and former San Francisco 49ers prospect Jaylon Moore tasked with protecting Mahomes' blind side. That's a fair amount of pressure for unproven blockers."

Does the success of the Chiefs hinge on a revamped offensive line?

We saw in the Super Bowl that even a quarterback as good as Mahomes is rendered useless when his front five can't protect against a four-man front.

Jaylon Moore, a four-year backup, and Josh Simmons, a rookie left tackle, along with Kingsley Suamataia, who has shifted from left tackle inside to guard, will be tasked with protecting the best quarterback in football.

Do that, and the Chiefs are golden.

Struggle and alarms will be going off everywhere for Reid and his coaching staff.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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