Patrick Mahomes Returns, But the Chiefs Are Handing His Blind Side to an Undrafted Free Agent

Patrick Mahomes is finally returning to the field, but the Kansas City Chiefs are welcoming him back with a terrifying reality check on his blind side.

According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, starting left tackle Josh Simmons has officially been ruled out. That means the job of keeping the franchise quarterback upright falls to Kahlil Benson, an undrafted free agent.

"Mike Garafolo reported that Kahlil Benson will be the blind-side protector in Patrick Mahomes' return to action."

Throwing an undrafted rookie at left tackle is like asking a guy who just got his learner's permit to parallel park a Ferrari on a steep hill. It might work out, but everyone watching is going to be holding their breath for all four quarters.

Mahomes is returning to action just in time for a divisional clash against the Denver Broncos. Bettors looking at Mahomes' passing props or the Chiefs' overall offensive output need to factor in this massive blind-side downgrade. A shaky left tackle usually means quicker throws, more check-downs, and a quarterback who might have to scramble for his life instead of letting deep routes develop.

We will see if the Chiefs can scheme up enough tight end chips and quick-game concepts to hide the mismatch on September 15. If not, Mahomes' highly anticipated return might feature a lot more dirt on his jersey than anyone in Kansas City wants to see.