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With training camp on the horizon, the Kansas City Chiefs enter the summer spotlight carrying the weight of recent success. They also have the burden of expectation that comes with it. After reaching three consecutive Super Bowls and falling short in the latest championship game, the dynasty faces a defining moment. Behind superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes and legendary coach Andy Reid, much of the pressure centers on the team’s ability to protect their franchise cornerstone.
With significant changes along the offensive line following the trade of veteran guard Joe Thuney, the Chiefs must find stability quickly. Training camp will be the proving ground where key players battle to prove they can sustain the level of play that has propelled Kansas City to the top of the league.
Transition, Talent, and Key Returns
The Thuney trade left a significant gap at guard for the Chiefs' roster. They’re banking on second-year player Kingsley Suamataia to bounce back after a tough rookie year at tackle. That's where he posted a 37.9 PFF grade. Now, he might improve if he can transition effectively to guard. To bolster the line, Kansas City added Jaylon Moore. That's an intriguing but possibly expensive choice expected to start at tackle while first-round pick Josh Simmons recovers from a knee injury. The Chiefs’ draft focused on scheme fits. They also retained key players like Trey Smith and Nick Bolton.
Though the receiving group still needs development, the return of Rashee Rice offers a welcome boost. Tight end Travis Kelce is also coming off a career-low season with just three touchdown catches. He decided to return for another year, remaining Mahomes’s primary target. With AFC rivals improving, the Chiefs must raise their level to keep pace and avoid falling behind in a competitive conference.
Here we'll try to look at the Kansas City Chiefs player who is under the most pressure as they enter the 2025 NFL season.
Player Under Pressure
The spotlight on Kansas City’s offensive line has never been more intense. At its center is Kingsley Suamataia, the Chiefs’ 2024 second-round pick. His rookie campaign was difficult, to say the least. Primarily starting at left tackle, Suamataia struggled, especially with pass protection against the speed and power of NFL edge rushers. The adjustment from college to pro level proved challenging. That led to reduced playing time last season. However, with veteran guard Joe Thuney traded to Chicago, the Chiefs have asked Suamataia to shift inside and compete fiercely for the starting left guard role in 2025.
This position switch offers Suamataia a fresh start. It's a chance to reboot his NFL career with a new set of responsibilities that better suit his frame and skill set. Sources close to the team note his comfort level has increased significantly during offseason workouts and OTAs. He continues to adapt to the guard position. His performance in the season finale against the Denver Broncos, where he started at left guard and played over 90 percent of offensive snaps, helped showcase his improved footwork. Suamataia has also shown the ability to work in tandem with the interior line. Former defensive standout Montez Sweat, known for his pass-rush prowess, praised Suamataia’s effort and potential at guard. This underscores the hope that this transition could unlock his upside.
Immense Pressure
Nonetheless, the pressure on Suamataia is immense. Joe Thuney was not only one of the league’s best pass-protecting guards. He was also a veteran leader and ironman whose influence extended beyond his play. Replacing someone of his caliber and steadiness amounts to stepping into huge shoes both on and off the field.
The Chiefs’ Super Bowl hopes significantly depend on how well Suamataia handles this responsibility. If he can hold down the left guard position and solidify the left side of the line, it would give Mahomes the crucial pocket time needed to work his magic. Conversely, if Suamataia struggles again, especially in pass protection, the Chiefs’ offense could face the same disruptive pressure that derailed their Super Bowl LIX bid.
A Make-or-Break Summer for Kansas City’s Offensive Front
As the Chiefs prepare for 2025, the pressure converges most intensely on Kingsley Suamataia’s development and adaptation to the guard position. His growth, which comes alongside the integration of new and returning pieces, will dictate the offense’s ability to flourish behind Mahomes. Training camp marks the start of this crucial chapter. For the Chiefs, success in Kansas City’s trenches is not optional. It is the foundation of their championship aspirations. Should Suamataia meet the challenge, the dynasty’s march can continue. If not, the consequences will ripple throughout a defense and offense built to win now.
