Chiefs’ O-Line Struggles Intensify with Early Exit of Morris
The Kansas City Chiefs are facing significant challenges along their offensive line following recent injuries. The team had hoped to stabilize their lineup, but events took a turn during their game against the Houston Texans.
Injury Report: Wanya Morris and Offensive Line Woes
Left tackle Wanya Morris sustained a left knee injury shortly after the game began. Morris was making his start in place of Josh Simmons, who is currently on injured reserve due to a fractured wrist. Unfortunately, Morris’s injury occurred when he was inadvertently rolled up on by center Creed Humphrey during a run play.
Once Morris was assisted from the field, he was taken to the locker room on a cart. He was ruled out before the first quarter ended, creating further complications for the Chiefs’ offensive line. Undrafted rookie Esa Pole stepped in to replace him, making his NFL debut after being promoted to the active roster only days prior.
Compounding Issues on the Offensive Line
The Chiefs began the game with three backup linemen protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes: Jaylon Moore, Mike Caliendo, and Morris in the lineup. Josh Simmons, their first-round pick, had already been sidelined after having surgery for a dislocated and fractured left wrist suffered in a previous game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Furthermore, the offensive line struggles were exacerbated by right tackle Jawaan Taylor’s absence due to a left triceps injury sustained in the same matchup against the Cowboys. Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith has also missed two games in a row due to a sprained right ankle he incurred during a victory over the Indianapolis Colts.
Defense Takes a Hit as Well
As if the offensive line issues weren’t enough, the defense faced challenges too. Cornerback Trent McDuffie injured his knee while covering Texans wide receiver Nico Collins in the first quarter and is now listed as questionable to return. The accumulating injuries are creating serious concerns for the Chiefs as they navigate the remainder of the season.
- Wanya Morris: Left knee injury, ruled out.
- Josh Simmons: On injured reserve, fractured wrist.
- Jawaan Taylor: Missed game, left triceps injury.
- Trey Smith: Out for two games, sprained right ankle.
- Trent McDuffie: Knee injury, questionable return.
With multiple injuries affecting key positions, the Chiefs will need to regroup quickly to remain competitive. The focus will be on how they adapt to these changes in their lineup moving forward.
