Can D.J. Humphries Be the Key to Protecting Patrick Mahomes’ Super Bowl Dreams?

Kansas City Chiefs Trust D.J. Humphries to Protect Patrick Mahomes’ Blind Side

The Kansas City Chiefs have high hopes for their newly signed offensive tackle, D.J. Humphries, who is expected to play a key role in protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes as the team aims for another Super Bowl victory. Humphries, who joined the Chiefs last week, has already received a warm welcome from his new teammates, many of whom are excited about his potential to shore up the left tackle position, which has been unstable this season.

Humphries, who played for the Arizona Cardinals for eight seasons and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2021, is no stranger to high expectations. Although he has been sidelined since suffering an ACL injury late last season, he brings a wealth of experience to the Chiefs’ offensive line. Coach Andy Reid has not yet named Humphries as a starter for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Chargers but has indicated that once Humphries is ready, he will be in the lineup.

The Chiefs’ need for a reliable left tackle became evident early in the season when both Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris struggled to protect Mahomes’ blind side. Suamataia, the rookie who started the season, was pulled from the lineup after a tough performance against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2, and Morris, his replacement, allowed three sacks in a recent game against the Las Vegas Raiders, leading to his benching. Coach Reid acknowledged that these growing pains were part of the learning process but emphasized the need for better protection moving forward.

Humphries’ arrival provides a much-needed solution. He brings not only his experience but also his leadership qualities to the Chiefs’ offensive line. Despite missing significant time due to injury, he is eager to prove that he can still perform at a high level. In a recent interview, Humphries expressed his gratitude for the warm reception from the Chiefs, noting how it felt to be welcomed by All-Pro players eager to have him join their ranks. “Everybody’s excited for me to be here,” Humphries said, clearly appreciating the opportunity.

One of the most touching aspects of Humphries’ decision to join the Chiefs was the role his son, Dash, played in encouraging him to sign with the team. After Humphries was released by the Cardinals, his eight-year-old son told him he should join Kansas City because it was the best place to play with Patrick Mahomes and win a Super Bowl. Humphries was struck by his son’s conviction, and his words ultimately played a part in his decision to make the move to Kansas City.

With Mahomes expressing confidence in his offensive line and remaining unfazed by the instability at left tackle, the Chiefs are hopeful that Humphries will quickly integrate into their system and provide the necessary protection for their star quarterback. Once he’s fully recovered and settled into the Chiefs’ offensive scheme, Humphries could be the missing piece that propels Kansas City to a third consecutive Super Bowl appearance.

As Reid noted, Humphries’ experience and leadership are invaluable assets. “He’s a good kid and works hard,” Reid said, acknowledging the role Humphries can play in the team’s future success. With the Chiefs aiming to continue their Super Bowl run, Humphries’ contributions to the offensive line will be critical in ensuring Mahomes has the time and protection he needs to execute plays and lead the Chiefs to victory.