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KC Chiefs have backup tackle options in free agency

By Jacob Milham

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - DECEMBER 05: Daniel Brunskill #60 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after the 30-23 loss to the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on December 05, 2021 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - DECEMBER 05: Daniel Brunskill #60 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after the 30-23 loss to the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on December 05, 2021 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /
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Sep 8, 2019; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars offensive tackle Will Richardson (76) walks off of the field after the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 8, 2019; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars offensive tackle Will Richardson (76) walks off of the field after the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

Jacksonville Jaguars’ Will Richardson

A career backup, Jacksonville Jaguars offensive tackle Will Richardson has been a steady presence for the team. He has appeared in 44 games, starting five of those. A former fourth-round election in the 2018 draft, Richardson has played multiple positions on the offensive line. He is primarily a tackle but logged 123 snaps at right guard in 2021.

Richardson is not much more than a depth piece and a capable spot starter. The North Carolina State alum had a chance to stand out in 2021 when the injury bug hit Jacksonville. While he was serviceable, Richardson is far down the list of Jacksonville’s priorities this offseason.

Several Jaguars’ offensive linemen are hitting free agency in 2022 or 2023, including left guard Andrew Nowell, center Brandon Linder, and right tackle Jawaan Taylor. Only two Jacksonville offensive linemen are signed after 2023, not a great sign for the unit’s short-term prospects. While this could be bad for Jacksonville, Richardson falling through the proverbial cracks to Kansas City would be ideal.

The Jaguars were one of the best pass-blocking teams in 2021. They only allowed 32 sacks all season, ninth in the league. Richardson’s pulling ability is evident, another attractive skill.

Richardson has the two most important traits for Kansas City: versatility and attainability. Richardson should not command much on the open market, but some teams will value him. He has playing time at every position except center and will be 26 years old when the season starts.

Richardson is not a certainty for the Chiefs, but the team should not overlook him.

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