Key Points
- Chiefs left tackle Wanya Morris exited on the first offensive snap with a left knee injury.
- Morris was already filling in for injured rookie Josh Simmons.
- Kansas City turned to third‑string rookie Esa Pole, who had no prior NFL snaps.
- The Chiefs were already without Jawaan Taylor (tricep) and Trey Smith (ankle).
- The injury further strains an offensive line contributing to the team’s inconsistent 6–6 season.
A Nightmare Start for Kansas City
The Kansas City Chiefs suffered another major setback to their battered offensive line on Sunday night, losing left tackle Wanya Morris on the very first play of their Week 14 matchup against the Houston Texans. The second‑year lineman went down with a left knee injury during a run‑blocking sequence and was ruled out shortly afterward.
Morris appeared to be rolled up from behind and needed assistance from trainers before being helped off the field. He was unable to put weight on his injured leg.
Forced to Turn to a Third‑String Rookie
Morris was already starting in place of rookie Josh Simmons, who remains sidelined with an injury. His departure forced the Chiefs to insert third‑string tackle Esa Pole, a rookie who had never taken an NFL snap, to protect Patrick Mahomes’ blind side.
The timing could not have been worse for Kansas City, which entered the game without starting right tackle Jawaan Taylor (tricep) and right guard Trey Smith (ankle). The patchwork offensive line has been a major factor in the team’s uneven 6–6 record this season.
Severity of Injury Raises Concerns
The Chiefs initially listed Morris as questionable before quickly downgrading him to out—a sign the team fears the injury may be significant. Head coach Andy Reid said further evaluation is expected Monday, when Morris will undergo additional testing.
The loss leaves Kansas City dangerously thin up front as they face a Texans defense anchored by elite pass rushers Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr.
Playoff Push Complicated by O‑Line Instability
With the Chiefs fighting to stay in the AFC playoff race, the stability of their offensive line remains one of the team’s biggest concerns. Protecting Mahomes has already been a challenge this season, and losing yet another starter only heightens the pressure on a unit struggling to stay healthy.
What Happens Next
Kansas City will await Monday’s medical results to determine the extent of Morris’ injury and whether a roster move is necessary. In the meantime, the Chiefs are expected to continue relying on Esa Pole and potential practice‑squad elevations as they attempt to stabilize the offensive line for the stretch run.
