We’ve known that the Kansas City Chiefs offensive line is ascending. They’re getting better year by year. I somewhat expected this to happen because the Chiefs were so young along the line over the past few years. 2017 should be even better but let’s take a look at how they did in 2016 according to Pro Football Focus.
Thanks to his offensive line, Raiders QB Derek Carr felt pressure less than any other QB in 2016. pic.twitter.com/FYvMbigQXy
— Pro Football Focus (@PFF) May 29, 2017
I find this list fascinating. Alex Smith is fifth here, well under the NFL average for pressure faced. Eric Fisher is taking steps forward into a competent left tackle and bookended by Mitch Schwartz. The only really questionable spot on the Chiefs line is left guard but even that has a couple of good candidates, including last year’s (brief) starter Parker Ehinger.
Derek Carr being on there is expected because Oakland has one of the top offensive lines in the league. I would expect them to be there. I’m a little surprised that Ben Roethlisberger is that high but, hey, when the refs are calling questionable holding calls on you late in a playoff game it makes you look good. (Yes, I’m still bitter)
It’s great for Alex Smith in 2017 that the Chiefs will have a good offensive line but also think of Patrick Mahomes and what he’s going to (presumably) be stepping into in 2018 or 2019. That should be a very good line for him.