Chiefs will be without a major offensive piece vs. Ravens in AFC title game

Thuney had been incredibly reliable, missing only two regular-season starts in eight seasons. He made all 17 starts along the Chiefs offensive line in 2023, earning his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod and first career All-Pro honor. 

The Ravens' top-ranked defense was already going to be a stiff challenge for the Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. However, the unit's impressive crop of pass-rushers, including Justin Madubuike, Jadeveon Clowney and Kyle Van Noy, now have a weakness to target. 

On top of the problems it creates in stopping the Ravens, Thuney's absence may force an adjustment to the Chiefs' plan of attack. 

Mahomes is still the driving force, but the days of leaning on him alone are seemingly gone. With that in mind, some, including longtime analyst Greg Cosell, believed they'd lean on the ground game and Isiah Pacheco more than expected against the Ravens, who were sixth against the run during the regular season. 

Thuney's status alone puts that strategy in jeopardy, but the Chiefs also have an eye on Pacheco's standing for Sunday's game. After rushing for 97 yards and a touchdown off 15 carries against the Bills, he's questionable (ankle/toe) for the AFC title game, but he did practice on Friday. 

Signs point to Pacheco being ready to go by Sunday, but he won't be 100 percent, adding another intriguing layer to what should be an epic showdown with the Ravens.