Grading the KC Chiefs position groups before the 2023 NFL Draft

Offensive line: B

The interior offensive line for the Chiefs was one of the best units in the NFL last season, and the core group is ready to run it back in 2023. The interior is anchored by center Creed Humphrey who has earned the highest career grade of anyone in his draft class via PFF. Creed is flanked by left guard Joe Thuney who is also one of the best at his position. Though still performing at an elite level the 30-year-old veteran does have some wear on his tires. The Chiefs may want to consider finding his replacement over the next few years, though right now his impact on the group’s overall success can’t be understated. Right guard Trey Smith is another mauler in the interior and has proved to be another late-round draft steal by Veach.

Interior depth is provided by the likes of Nick Allegretti, Austin Reiter, and Mike Caliendo, though it was only Allegretti who saw any action last year. He has proved himself a capable player to plug in across the interior when called upon over the last several years in KC. Adding some additional depth to the group wouldn’t hurt, though the Chiefs have more pressing needs to address across the roster.

While the interior line remains the same, the offensive tackle position underwent some work this offseason and currently stands unfinished. Left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. joined up with the rival Cincinnati Bengals and was replaced with Jacksonville’s Jawaan Taylor who signed a four-year, 80 million dollar deal with Kansas City. Brown had a season of ups and downs as his inability to protect Mahomes from speed rushers on the edge was highlighted. Taylor on the other hand is a quicker, more athletic option that fits the team’s mold of a pass-first squad more appropriately. Another desirable trait possessed by Taylor involves his versatility, as he is capable at playing both tackle positions. Left tackle depth is provided by Prince Tega Wanogho who saw only 58 snaps last year, and remains the current backup at the position.

With the left tackle position addressed, the move of Andrew Wylie to the Commanders leaves an empty spot at starting right tackle. Lucas Niang and Darian Kinnard remain on the roster, and Veach stated they are currently competing for the starting job. Unfortunately, this doesn’t necessarily cement the position. Niang has been persistently injured since being drafted in 2020 and only saw 9 snaps last year, while rookie Kinnard didn’t see a single snap. Overall, the offensive line is a nearly finished product, save for the right tackle position. Expect the Chiefs to eagerly target this position in the upcoming draft as there are several solid options available to help finish off this already impressive position group.