The Kansas City Chiefs have confirmed their worst fears regarding the health of one of their key offensive linemen. Following a devastating injury, left tackle Wanya Morris has been ruled out for the remainder of the season. This situation was serious enough that star quarterback Patrick Mahomes was seen praying for his teammate during the game.
According to ESPN”s Adam Schefter, Morris suffered a season-ending knee injury during the Chiefs” recent loss to the Houston Texans. This unfortunate event adds to what has already been a challenging season for the Chiefs, who now hold a record of 6-7 and face an uphill battle to reach the playoffs.
Morris was injured on the very first play of the game, as his knee bent backward in a painful manner amid a pile of players. The Chiefs, already struggling with injuries on their offensive line, have now been forced to turn to their third-string left tackle. Rookie Josh Simmons was placed on injured reserve last week, exacerbating the team”s woes.
Despite the circumstances, there was a glimmer of hope in the form of Morris” replacement, Esa Pole. Pole stepped up admirably in his first outing, allowing only three pressures over 42 snaps and is expected to start against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 15.
However, the Chiefs” offensive line issues extend beyond the loss of Wanya Morris. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor and Simmons were also sidelined after injuries sustained during the loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving. Taylor missed the Texans game due to a triceps injury alongside ongoing knee problems, while starting right guard Trey Smith has been out for the last two and a half games due to a sprained ankle.
With this mounting list of injuries, the Chiefs have had to shuffle their offensive line considerably, with Jaylon Moore stepping in at right tackle and Mike Caliendo moving into the right guard position. Currently, the only two healthy starting offensive linemen left for the Chiefs are Kingsley Suamataia, who plays left guard, and center Creed Humphrey.
As it stands, the Chiefs have an 11% chance to make the playoffs, according to NFL statistics, making their situation increasingly precarious. It appears to be a daunting challenge even for a team led by a player of Mahomes” caliber.
