As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for the 2025 NFL season, general manager Brett Veach has made significant changes to the team’s offensive line. However, ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell remains skeptical about these moves, raising questions about the Chiefs’ ability to protect superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes effectively.

Chiefs’ offensive line overhaul: A bold but risky move

The offensive line has been a pivotal factor in Kansas City’s recent success. After back-to-back Super Bowl losses largely attributed to a vulnerable offensive line, Veach took decisive action in 2021, acquiring top talents like Orlando Brown Jr., Joe Thuney, Creed Humphrey, and Trey Smith. This core unit helped the Chiefs reach three consecutive Super Bowls.

In 2025, Veach doubled down on the offensive line but with a different approach. The team traded away proven guard Joe Thuney, a first-team All-Pro in 2024, for a fourth-round pick and invested heavily in less proven players, such as Jaylon Moore, a backup tackle with limited NFL starts. Moore’s $21.2 million guaranteed contract raised eyebrows given his relative inexperience.

Bill Barnwell’s critique: Concerns about inexperience and reliability

Barnwell’s analysis points to the risks inherent in the Chiefs’ new offensive line strategy. Moore’s limited game time and inconsistent performance in previous seasons make him a gamble as Mahomes’ blindside protector. Additionally, the Chiefs face uncertainty with players like Simmons and Suamataia, who may need more time to develop before becoming reliable starters.

Despite these concerns, Barnwell acknowledges that similar skepticism surrounded the 2021 rebuild, which ultimately paid off. The question remains whether the 2025 lineup can live up to that standard or if the gamble will cost the Chiefs another championship run.

What this means for the Chiefs and Mahomes

Protecting Patrick Mahomes is paramount to Kansas City’s championship hopes. With an offensive line that allowed pressure in critical moments during past Super Bowls, the stakes are high. While the new additions show potential, the lack of proven experience could leave Mahomes vulnerable to opposing pass rushers.

The Chiefs’ coaching staff, led by Andy Reid, will need to maximize the strengths of their new offensive line while minimizing risks. Early-season performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, with Moore’s ability to handle high-pressure situations being a key storyline.

Conclusion: A calculated risk with high rewards or a potential weakness?

Brett Veach’s offseason changes reflect a bold vision to maintain Kansas City’s dominance in the AFC. Yet, Bill Barnwell’s cautionary perspective highlights the possible pitfalls of relying on unproven talent in such a critical area.

Ultimately, the success of the Chiefs’ offensive line overhaul will hinge on player development, coaching adjustments, and the ability to keep Patrick Mahomes protected. Fans can only hope this calculated risk pays off — or face the consequences of another missed opportunity at the Super Bowl.

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