Chiefs to Make Another Change at Left Tackle with D.J. Humphries Starting vs. Chargers
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Kansas City Chiefs are making another change at left tackle, with D.J. Humphries set to start against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. The move comes after Lucas Niang, who started the first two games of the season at left tackle, suffered a torn MCL in his right knee in the Chiefs’ Week 2 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Humphries’ Background
Humphries, 28, is a seven-year NFL veteran who was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He spent the first six seasons of his career with the Cardinals before signing a three-year, $45 million contract with the Chiefs in March.
Humphries has started 85 games at left tackle in his career, including all 16 games for the Cardinals last season. He has allowed just 12 sacks in the past three seasons, according to Pro Football Focus.
Niang’s Injury
Niang suffered his knee injury in the first quarter of the Chiefs’ Week 2 loss to the Ravens. He was replaced by rookie left tackle Trey Smith, who played the rest of the game.
Niang is expected to miss multiple weeks with the injury, which is a significant blow to the Chiefs’ offensive line. Niang was considered one of the Chiefs’ most promising young players, and his injury leaves the team thin at left tackle.
Humphries’ Impact
Humphries is a veteran player who has a proven track record of success at left tackle. He is a good pass blocker and a solid run blocker. He should be able to step in and provide the Chiefs with a steady presence at left tackle.
Humphries’ addition to the starting lineup could also help the Chiefs’ running game. The Chiefs have struggled to run the ball effectively in the first two games of the season, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry. Humphries is a good run blocker, and his presence could help the Chiefs improve their running game.
Other Offensive Line Changes
In addition to Humphries starting at left tackle, the Chiefs are also making other changes to their offensive line. Rookie guard Trey Smith is expected to start at left guard, replacing veteran Joe Thuney, who is dealing with an ankle injury.
The Chiefs are also expected to start rookie center Creed Humphrey at center, replacing Austin Reiter, who has been dealing with a knee injury. Humphrey started the first two games of the season at left guard, but he is expected to move to center this week.
Conclusion
The Chiefs are making several changes to their offensive line this week, including starting D.J. Humphries at left tackle. Humphries is a veteran player who should be able to provide the Chiefs with a steady presence at left tackle. The other changes to the offensive line could also help the Chiefs improve their running game.