The Commanders are getting an advantage over the Chiefs, but it might not matter by game time

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Josh Taylor | Last updated Oct 26, 2025 1:07 PM ET

The Washington Commanders are looking to shock the world as big underdogs, as they hit the road to take on Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday Night Football.

It will take a full team effort to get a much-needed bounce-back win without quarterback Jayden Daniels and a defense that's struggled all season long. The Commanders are getting a boost this week by finally having wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel back on offense to help Marcus Mariota.

The defense, however, could be without a key defender, which would wipe away the advantage of two possible offensive linemen being out for the Chiefs.

The Chiefs could be without two starters on the offensive line

We've seen in the past that the only way to really stop Mahomes is by getting pressure on him and not allowing him to find his open targets downfield, which is easier said than done. One way to make it easier is by having two starters out on the Chiefs' offensive line, which could be the case Monday night. Rookie left tackle Josh Simmons has been away from the team, and the starting right guard, Trey Smith, is listed as doubtful with a back injury.

Chiefs ruled out LT Josh Simmons for Monday night’s game against the Commanders and listed G Trey Smith as doubtful.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 25, 2025

Smith has been one of the best guards in the league this season and hasn't allowed a single sack or hit on Mahomes. Simmons has been as advertised to start his career as well, and only has one sack allowed in 224 pass blocking snaps. Missing two starters on the line opens up the opportunity to get to Mahomes, but the Commanders have their own injuries that could wash the advantage away.

Daron Payne is listed as questionable

The Commanders' defense has been one of the worst in the league this season, and it should be a rough night against the Chiefs' offense that's clicking on all cylinders again. The pass rush will be the X-factor for the Commanders, but injuries can hinder the hopes of getting Mahomes on the ground.

Payne is listed as questionable after missing every practice this week due to a toe injury that just popped up, and looks to be a game-time decision.