Ranking the five most disrespected Chiefs

Thuney isn't exactly disrespected, but he deserves more love for being adaptable and doing everything asked of him to help the team win. Due to injuries along the offensive line, the longtime left guard switched to left tackle midseason to protect Patrick Mahomes' blind side. 

Guard and tackle are entirely different positions regarding responsibility and technique, but Thuney stepped up to the challenge and hasn't allowed a sack since the transition. 

3. TE Noah Gray

Travis Kelce understandably overshadows Gray at the tight end position, but he's been a key piece of the offense this year. The fourth-year TE put up career-high marks in catches (40), receiving yards (405) and receiving touchdowns (five) in the regular season. 

He also ranked eighth among 37 qualified tight ends in overall PFF grade (74.2) and didn't drop a single pass. Kelce's production started to dip this season, and Gray played well in a busier role. 

2. LB Drue Tranquill

This Steve Spagnuolo-led defense is built on exotic blitzes, and Tranquill is a massive part of that strategy. Tranquill ranked 10th in the NFL among 189 qualified linebackers in total pressures (16) and 26th in pass rush grade (72.1) this season. 

He recorded nine quarterback hits and 94 combined tackles, the second-highest mark on the team this year. Spagnuolo wouldn't be as effective with his blitz calls without Tranquill on the field.

1. DT Tershawn Wharton

Many fans tuning into this year's Super Bowl have likely never heard the name, but Wharton is a crucial part of Kansas City's defense. Chris Jones gets all the accolades on this defensive line, and rightfully so, but Wharton recorded more sacks (6.5) and passes defended (two) in the regular season. The defensive tackle has recorded 2.0 sacks and three quarterback hits through two playoff games.

Jones wouldn't be as effective without a game-wrecking running mate. Wharton is a fantastic interior pass rusher who doesn't get enough credit.