The Kansas City Chiefs are more rested than they've been in a while, but the offensive line could still use more time,.
The bye week came and went a month ago for the Chiefs, but the late-season span between games in Weeks 13 and 14 allowed 10 days for injured players to (attempt to) recover during the stretch run of the regular season. While that was undoubtedly good for several players dealing with minor aches and pains, those who've been missing in action along the offensive line are still trending to be out with the season on the brink.
The Chiefs are 6-6 and another loss would likely close the window on any postseason hopes for the team. That's what makes Sunday's visit with the Houston Texans such a compelling matchup. The one problem is that Houston boasts the league's top-ranked defense, and the strength of the unit is found in the trenches.
Houston's defense ranks first in the NFL in yards and points allowed. They've also allowed the fewest number of first downs. It's hard to move the chains on the Texans, and that's established up front. Pass rushers Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. anchor the edges, but interior players like Sheldon Rankins and Tim Settle also deserve a mention. Settle is injured, but the Texans have depth inside.
The Chiefs' offensive line hasn't gotten any healthier even with 10 days of rest between games.
That's going to make it tough for Kansas City to impose its will on offense with as many as three starters missing in front of Patrick Mahomes. Left tackle Josh Simmons is already out after being placed on injured reserve with a fractured and dislocated wrist.
Right guard Trey Smith has already missed a couple of games this season, most recently in Week 13 against the Dallas Cowboys with an ankle injury, and he's still trending toward not playing in Week 14 as well. The Chiefs listed him as doubtful on the team's final injury report following practice on Friday.
The door is still open for right tackle Jawaan Taylor to play on Sunday night despite dealing with a triceps injury. However, the veteran missed practice all week long after having to leave the Chiefs' loss to the Cowboys on Thanksgiving Day. He's also doubtful on the injury report, which makes it more likely that all three players will be on the sidelines in Week 14.
On the edges, swing tackle Jaylon Moore and backup tackle Wanya Morris have practiced all week but head coach Andy Reid said both players are ready to play either side. Mike Caliendo is the presumed starter at right guard, should Smith prove unable to take the field. He's already started two games this season. Only left guard Kingsley Suamataia and center Creed Humphrey are left standing at this point in the season as reliable help up front.