Where they stand: Chiefs O-Line
By Ryan Tracy
The draft yielded a selection whose offseason progression seems very familiar from where I sit. Last season, Mitch Morse came into OTAs, changed to a new position and took over the center duties with the starters. He had been targeted in the draft with the hopes he could do just that. It seems, by all indications, that Parker Ehinger has the same thing planned for the left guard spot.
Ehinger quickly replaced Zach Fulton as the first team left guard in OTAs. His athleticism give him a big advantage over Fulton, which is critical in this offense. It may be the reason Ehinger can step in and not look back, just as Morse did. Knowing Fulton’s limitations at guard, it would be the best scenario for the team if Ehinger can win the starting job outright early on in camp.
Speaking of Zach Fulton… he was in the mix initially at left guard as the offseason kicked off. He also proved he can play well at center if Morse cannot go for any reason. At this point, Fulton appears to the the prime backup at the interior line positions and should safely be one of the top seven linemen on the 53-man roster.
The eighth spot could come down to a battle. Jordan Devey and Zach Sterup have a chance to earn that roster spot, but face a tough road. Going into camp, the inside track on the final roster position goes to Jarrod Pughsley. He has gained some limited experience and has shown he has the magic component Reid looks for. He’s versatile.
Barring trade or a veteran pick-up, the offensive line picture in 2016 is just about as clear as its ever been during the Reid/Dorsey regime. The question is whether or not its good enough for a playoff run. I am cautiously optimistic that it is.
How do you see the offensive line, Addicts?