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Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

ESPN Highlights Patrick Mahomes’ Potential ‘Big Obstacle’ in 2025 Season

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Aug 20, 2025 10:24 AM ET

Patrick Mahomes enters the 2025 season as one of the NFL’s most dominant quarterbacks, but ESPN has spotlighted a significant hurdle he may face this year. The Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive line, particularly rookie left tackle Josh Simmons, will play a pivotal role in determining whether Mahomes can maintain his elite level of play.

Simmons, drafted in the first round from Ohio State, has shown promise during preseason but is still adjusting to the NFL’s speed and complexity. His ability to protect Mahomes’ blind side will be critical, especially against top-tier pass rushers. Early preseason evaluations indicate Simmons has made strides in timing his movements with Mahomes’ cadence, but consistency remains a work in progress.

Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Kansas City’s offensive line struggled in 2024, with Mahomes enduring the highest sack total of his career. The Chiefs prioritized bolstering protection through the draft, but integrating a rookie into such a crucial position carries risks. Simmons has acknowledged the challenges, including avoiding pre-snap tendencies that could tip off defenses about the play call.

Despite these concerns, Simmons has impressed coaches and teammates with his work ethic and progress . Head coach Andy Reid has praised him for his dedication, noting his seamless return from a collegiate knee injury. While his development is ongoing, Kansas City seems optimistic about his ability to anchor the line.

ESPN’s NFL Analysis Points Out Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes’ Possible Big Obstacle

Jul 22, 2025; St. Joseph, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes (15) walks down the hill to the fields prior to training camp at Missouri Western State University. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Mahomes’ 2025 campaign may face a potential obstacle that can affect his team. This is detailed more in an analysis by Nate Taylor for ESPN.

Biggest X factor: Rookie left tackle Josh Simmons

The Chiefs are ready to have their offense become a spaceship again. But for that to happen, quarterback Patrick Mahomes will need time and proper protection with help from Simmons to load up his right arm. With few changes on defense, the most the Chiefs can improve on from last season is their offense, which they’d like to see consistently put 30 points on the scoreboard. If Simmons struggles, Mahomes will on ce again have to overcome a pretty big obstacle.

The stakes are high for Kansas City, who aim to return to the Super Bowl after falling short last season. Mahomes’ ability to perform under pressure has never been in doubt, but the offensive line’s performance may dictate how far Kansas City can go.

Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

If Simmons can rise to the challenge, he could solidify Kansas City’s offensive line and help Mahomes overcome this potential obstacle. His growth will be a key storyline as Kansas City eyes another championship run.

Jul 22, 2025; St. Joseph, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) speaks to media after training camp at Missouri Western State University. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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