The Kansas City Chiefs may have found a solution to their offensive woes, as veteran left tackle DJ Humphries returns to full fitness following his recovery from an ACL tear.
Humphries joined the Chiefs last month in a move that surprised many NFL fans, given that he was expected to be out for the season after tearing his ACL in the final week of the 2023 season. However, he has been back on the practice field in recent weeks and is set to start in Week 14 after leaving the Arizona Cardinals.
The Chiefs have so far rotated rookie Kingsley Suamataia and second-year pro Wanya Morris at left tackle, but both have struggled. Humphries signed with the Chiefs on a bargain deal and looks set to return to action when the Chiefs take on the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.
The former Cardinals left tackle has been one of the top performers in his position over the past eight seasons, signing two lengthy extensions and earning over $100million (£78m) in his career – all while still being just 30 years old.
Arizona had previously decided to release Humphries this past season after he suffered an ACL tear in a bid to save on their salary cap. Humphries remained a free agent until late November, casting doubt over his participation this season.
However, his signing with the Chiefs sparked hope among fans for his return – and he’s expected to do so swiftly, stepping up as their starter. Humphries has started in 98 NFL games, serving as the Cardinals team captain for the past five years and providing a reliable anchor for Kyler Murray.
Moving forward, he’s anticipated to start, providing a significant boost for Mahomes as well as the returning Isiah Pacheco, who missed most of the season due to a fractured fibula sustained in week two.
The Chiefs currently hold the No.1 seed in the AFC, having won 11 of their first 12 games this season. While they will be partaking in the playoffs again this term, Mahomes and his teammates may struggle to keep hold of that top seed. The Buffalo Bills (10-2) and Pittsburgh Steelers (9-3) are also looking in good shape in the AFC.
Over in the NFC, the Detroit Lions are leading the way after beating the Green Bay Packers on Thursday to establish a 12-1 record. The Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings (both at 10-2) are also poised to finish the regular season strongly.
