Latest Updates from the NFL
Explore the top storylines for 2025 NFL training camps | ESPN
Chiefs Left Tackle Position
Struggles in the left tackle position nearly led to difficulties for the Chiefs during the 2024 season. Yet, the team's unwavering and gradually improving offense pushed through to reach Super Bowl LIX. However, their challenges ultimately caught up with them.
After moving 2024 second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia to the left guard position left vacant by Joe Thuney, the Chiefs committed even more resources to bolster this crucial role. They added Jaylon Moore through free agency, alongside Ohio State's Josh Simmons in the April draft.
Both players come with their own sets of risks. Moore has primarily been a fill-in starter with the 49ers, while Simmons is in recovery from a patella injury and surgery. Pre-training camp, Simmons is expected to participate fully, setting the stage for an authentic competition.
Chiefs fans are all too familiar with the ongoing uncertainty, as the left tackle position was also in flux during the previous season. The hope is that Simmons can showcase his health and worthiness, allowing Moore to serve as a reliable swing tackle. It appears Simmons may be the frontrunner for the left tackle role, but durability will be key for him to claim that position.
NFL training camps: 50 essential details as teams assemble for the 2025 season | USA Today
5. The number of teams opting for off-site training camps, a shift from when bonding and conditioning were frequently prioritized by coaching staff. In 2025, the Cowboys, Buffalo Bills, Indianapolis Colts, Kansas City Chiefs, and Pittsburgh Steelers will be the only teams engaging in a version of traditional football camps.
Revitalizing the Chiefs’ Offense: A Return to Explosive Plays | The Athletic
The Chiefs ranked last in 2024 regarding explosive play rate but stood fifth in terms of success rate. Their success primarily stemmed from a robust ground game and Patrick Mahomes’ proficiency in third-and-long situations. Impressively, they were third in successful conversions on third-and-long (7+ yards) with a rate of 32.6%, especially given the struggles at the receiver position and indications of decline from tight end Travis Kelce. The Chiefs often found themselves outmatched by potent defenses throughout the season. For instance, the Texans' pass rush heavily impacted the Chiefs’ offense during the divisional round, although the defense and special teams managed to keep the team afloat.
One of the brightest spots of the season occurred during the AFC Championship Game against the Bills, where the Chiefs delivered one of their finest offensive displays. The effectiveness of Buffalo’s defense largely hinges on sound teamwork and strategic schemes. The Chiefs can generate high-level offensive output when the talent gap is minimal.
However, during the Super Bowl, Kansas City's offense faced a significant mismatch in terms of talent. The Eagles' defense didn’t require advanced schematics; their strategy involved playing quarters coverage, shadowing Kelce, stifling short routes, and compelling Mahomes to extend plays longer than necessary. As a result, the offensive line struggled to provide him with adequate time to connect with downfield receivers.
Ranking the NFL's Top 10 Defenses for 2025 | NFL.com
With five Super Bowl appearances and three victories in the past six years, Kansas City is experiencing a dynastic period. While Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes typically draw the spotlight, the Chiefs' recent success has been significantly propelled by Steve Spagnuolo's defensive unit. They ranked second in 2023 and sixth in 2024 in points allowed, helping to consistently keep games competitive and allowing Mahomes to work his magic during crucial moments.
The defensive line's centerpiece is Chris Jones, a formidable presence standing 6'6" and weighing 310 pounds, who wreaks havoc across the field. Another standout defender, Trent McDuffie, thrives in both inside and outside coverage, combining intellect with physical prowess, winning the admiration of coaches throughout his career. The second level of defense showcases a well-rounded trio of linebackers. Nick Bolton recently became one of the highest-paid linebackers in the league, while Leo Chenal continues to emerge as an athletic enforcer. Moreover, veteran Drue Tranquill contributes valuable skills against both the run and pass.
Although Kansas City experienced the loss of key starters such as safety Justin Reid and defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton to free agency, GM Brett Veach proactively addressed the secondary and interior defensive line by procuring top-tier talent during the offseason. Acquiring free agent Kristian Fulton fortifies the cornerback position, while rookie DT Omarr Norman-Lott promises to be a disruptive force early in his career.
Around the NFL
Shemar Stewart: A Potential Return to School? | NBC Sports
According to Billy Heyen from TheSportingNews.com, Bud Elliott of CBS Sports reported that Stewart has been “fully engaged in workouts” at Texas A&M. Elliott's source indicated that Stewart “might consider returning to play this season and subsequently enter the draft next year.”
While Elliott's first claim is largely accurate, indications suggest he is not “practicing” with the team yet—given that fall practices haven't commenced. However, if Stewart chooses to return to school for 2025, the Bengals would retain his rights until the first draft after his eligibility concludes.
Although NCAA rules would generally prohibit a return after being drafted, many existing regulations have faced scrutiny and opposition in light of federal antitrust laws. The question remains: should a player without any NFL earnings or contracts be restricted from going back to school?
Micah Parsons on Contract Extension Talks: “I’ll Get My Worth” | CBS Sports
“I just put in extra effort. If others don’t recognize my value, I don’t sulk. I simply work harder,” Parsons expressed during a football camp in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where he spoke with PennLive’s Nick Farabaugh. “You have to demonstrate your worth in this league.”
Parsons certainly knows his worth, having racked up at least 12 sacks every season since his rookie campaign. He's been named to the Pro Bowl four times, earned two First Team All-Pro selections, and was recognized as the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021.
Since being selected with the 12th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Parsons has tallied 52.5 sacks, 256 tackles, and forced nine fumbles.
“I’m confident I’ll get what I deserve. The market shifts each year, and this season, the salary cap increased significantly,” Parsons affirmed. “Understanding contracts comes down to percentages based on the cap, not solely on numbers themselves.”
Important Team Updates
Recently, the Chiefs waived wide receiver Justyn Ross just days before the team was scheduled to report to training camp.
During his freshman season at Clemson in 2018, Ross showcased promise as a future standout player. In the College Football Playoff against Notre Dame and Alabama, Ross connected 12 times with now Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence, accumulating 301 yards and three touchdowns on the path to the Tigers' national championship.
However, Ross faced a setback when he missed the entire 2020 season due to spinal fusion surgery. Although he returned in 2021, he went undrafted in 2022, eventually signing with the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent.
Unfortunately, his troubles continued in Kansas City. Following significant hype, he missed his rookie season due to a foot injury. After a healthy return to the active roster in 2023, Ross missed six games on the Commissioner’s Exempt List following an October domestic violence incident, finishing the season with only six catches for 53 yards.
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