Chiefs offensive line takes major hit thanks to COVID-19 scare

The Kansas City Chiefs placed their two best offensive linemen on the COVID-19 list.

Patrick Mahomes is once again the driving force for a Kansas City Chiefs team that looks ready to contend for a championship, and the offensive line has been at or near the very top of the league in several important categories. That stalwart unit was dealt a big blow this afternoon, as they might be down two starters ahead of a primetime clash against a division rival.

The Chiefs placed left tackle Eric Fisher and right tackle Mitchell Schwartz on the COVID-19 list. While their availability for Sunday Night Football against the Las Vegas Raiders is now in doubt, they could return to action before the game if they continue to test negative.

The Chiefs might be down two elite linemen in Fisher and Schwartz against the Raiders

This isn’t the first COVID-19 scare that has made its way onto the Kansas City roster, as wide receiver Mecole Hardman, fullback Anthony Sherman, and practice-squad quarterback Jordan Ta’amu all spent time on that list. This latest scare has potentially robbed the Chiefs of one of the most improved players over the last few seasons in Fisher and a four-time All-Pro in Schwartz.

2020 third-round pick Lucas Niang could’ve come in handy here, but he opted out of the season due to COVID-19 concerns. If Schwartz and Fisher don’t return, look for Mike Remmers to take up one of the two tackle spots. As for the other, Bryan Witzmann could earn a promotion from the practice squad, while offensive guard Yasir Durant could get snaps at tackle due to his experience at the position in college.

The Raiders’ pass rush isn’t much to write home about, but the vertical aspects of Kansas City’s offense might have difficulty getting into high gear if backups who aren’t as reliable in pass protection have to start for two elite talents.