It was the week 13 of the 2024 season. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes had the ball in his hands. But the Raiders DE Maxx Crosby cut through the Chiefs protection and sacked the signal caller. It made him angry and frustrated. The HC Andy Reid saw it on the sidelines. The problem was bigger than it seemed. The AFC West franchise reaching the Super Bowl was the only reason it was questioned less. However, as we approach the draft, analysts are requesting the franchise to focus on primary issues.
On Saturday, April 12, former NFL receiver Keyshawn Johnson discussed their area of concerns on the FS1 show. While talking about the draft order, he said, “You don’t have to stay there in the first round. You can move out of 31, pick up some spots, and do some different things to address the immediate needs of the offensive line. Their number 1 priority is to take care of the offensive line.” They need to switch places. But how much can they jump? It will be worth watching. But yes, the O-line is the biggest concern.
The biggest concern is protecting their QB. Patrick Mahomes suffered 36 sacks last year, most in his 8 year long career. While Andy Reid did good work of hiding it, the Eagles made a mockery in the Super Bowl 59. It’s no joke going 34-0 by the 43rd minute in the trophy game. That shows pure domination.
ESPN’s draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. also made a similar draft pick. He predicted Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons to be their first pick. The college player injured his knee last October. But prior to that, his game was on point. The analyst commented, “He has really good footwork and power, and he gave up just one sack over 19 career starts at left tackle. Heck, he hadn’t given up a single pressure in six games before the injury last season. That’s the kind of pass protection the Chiefs need.”
The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner also chose another offensive line player for protection. It’s Ohio State OL Donovan Jackson. He also praised the college athlete and said, “A balanced, explosive athlete with very good length.” Andy Reid must focus on that. Until Patrick Mahomes is protected, they cannot aim for greatness.
Patrick Mahomes – Brilliance among disaster
Last year, the Chiefs QB had 392 of 581 passes (67.5% completion rate). It’s his best pass completion rate in his career. Overall, he was their guiding force, guiding the rookie like Xavier Worthy to reach the Super Bowl. In 2023, it was the WR Rashee Rice. He has been doing it all along. But Andy Reid couldn’t keep up the protection. The dreams of a 3-peat crashed.
NFL Analyst Domonique Foxworth said on ESPN’s First Take last month, “Yes, I watched the Super Bowl. That man (Patrick Mahomes) looked like a victim to me. It does feel like they have failed him.” That’s the biggest concern. The only way they can sort things out is by drafting a left tackle.
However, there is another section that argues for a good receiver. They want better WRs. It’s the reason NFL.com’s Rhett Lewis projected the Arizona Wildcats WR Tetairoa McMillan as their first-round pick. The WR will also meet with the Cowboys, Patriots, and Saints. Can Patrick Mahomes get over the O-line blues? The 2025 is the revenge tour. That’s the only way to assert their dominance once again.
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