Initial reports, like those from NFL insider Dan Graziano of ESPN, suggested the Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid might be looking to acquire a running back, a new weapon for Patrick Mahomes, to bolster an offense that hasn’t found a consistent ground game. This would seemingly address their most obvious statistical struggle: an underwhelming run game.

But according to some new reports, the Chiefs are now reportedly leaning in a completely different direction. Reported by Dianna Russini of The Athletic, “The Chiefs are shopping for defensive linemen — but not running backs.”

Instead of chasing an offensive upgrade, they are apparently more focused on improving the team’s defense, which could be a bit upsetting for Mahomes and the team.

But if you look at the team’s struggle more closely, this decision actually does make a lot more sense. The real issue with the team doesn’t seem to be the talent in the backfield. The current running back duo of Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt is considered capable of bringing in the desired result when given the space.  The real issue lies with the linemen in front of them, facing difficulty with run-blocking. 

The team with a current score of 3-3 is ranking at the near bottom with 31st rank in run-stop win rate. When the D-Line can’t hold its ground, opponents run all over them. The team is currently ranked 19th in rushing yards allowed per game. Teams know this weakness and are exploiting it. As the trade deadline approaches, the Chiefs aren’t just looking for an upgrade; they are looking to plug a critical gap in their defense. 

Rashee Rice is back in practice session ahead of week 7

The wait is officially over for the Kansas City Chiefs with the return of WR Rashee Rice. After serving his six-game suspension, Rice is set for a major return this Sunday as the Chiefs face the Las Vegas Raiders. And by all accounts, they aren’t planning to ease him back into the lineup; he’s expected to jump right into a heavy workload.

This is huge because Rice is the dynamic, reliable playmaker the Chiefs’ offense has been missing and gives Patrick Mahomes a reliable possession receiver who can turn short throws into big gains. Head Coach Andy Reid couldn’t hide his excitement, simply noting;

“It will be great to get him back going and in the swing.”

Crucially, this marks the first time quarterback Patrick Mahomes will command a huddle featuring the intended full complement of wide receivers: Rice, alongside speedster Xavier Worthy and possibly Marquise Brown, if he is taken off the IR. 

Rice confirmed he has remained in game shape despite his time away. He spent his suspension maintaining a rigorous workout schedule in the demanding heat and humidity of Florida, faithfully replicating the Monday-through-Friday grind of a typical NFL game week, capped off with a Sunday workout. His fitness should be immediate, suggesting he is fully prepared to take on the Raiders’ defense.