KC Chiefs biggest roster concerns entering the summer

With the majority of the offseason already behind us, only a few premier events remain before the commencement of training camp in July. Kansas City Chiefs fans have relished this offseason, as they hold the title of defending Super Bowl champions and had the privilege of hosting the 2023 NFL Draft in downtown Kansas City.

Despite the overall optimism among Chiefs fans, lingering questions still need addressing for the team to defend their championship successfully. Undoubtedly, the team remains elite and is presently favored in the Super Bowl LVIII betting odds. However, there exist a few minor concerns that Kansas City must address or overcome if they aspire to secure back-to-back championships next February.

Let’s delve into the four most significant roster concerns confronting the Kansas City Chiefs as they approach the summer of 2023.

Starting left tackle

The Chiefs’ offensive tackle position has undergone significant changes this offseason, and that’s no secret. They allowed Orlando Brown Jr. and Andrew Wylie to depart in free agency while signing Jawaan Taylor and Donovan Smith.

Jawaan Taylor is expected to secure the right tackle position, but the situation remains uncertain at left tackle. Currently, Donovan Smith is projected to be the starter, but there is a chance that rookie Wanya Morris could surprise everyone and snatch the starting job from the seasoned nine-year veteran.

While Smith has been a decent blindside protector in the past, he experienced a decline in performance in 2022 and ranked second among all offensive tackles in penalties. It’s plausible that his subpar season was influenced by the lackluster performance of the entire Tampa Bay offense. However, it’s also realistic to acknowledge that his best years might be behind him. Wanya Morris exhibits great potential, but the Chiefs signed Donovan Smith post-draft for a reason. Morris still has much development ahead of him, and it’s unlikely he will see significant playing time in his rookie season.

Considering that the positions of left guard through right tackle are set in stone, it amplifies the left tackle position as the weak link on the offensive line. With Donovan Smith on a one-year, prove-it deal following a disappointing season, and Wanya Morris seemingly not ready to assume the starting role from day one, the Chiefs find themselves treading on thin ice at one of the most crucial positions on the entire team.