The Kansas City Chiefs’ success may be attributed to more than just its star players, who are often highlighted in the media for their tremendous on-field accomplishments.
The choice made by the Chiefs to strengthen their offensive line to protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes better has resulted in a substantial change throughout the last few years.
The signing of veteran guard Joe Thuney by Kansas City before the 2021 season was a significant move that sent a message. Mahomes was afforded more time to operate and play his game due to the investments made in the offensive line.
A Pro Bowl guard with previous championship experience was brought in to demonstrate the proper way to get things done to younger guys. During the news conference after practice on Friday, Thuney provided some insight into how he describes blocking for Mahomes.
Thuney explained, saying, “I think [you need to] just play through the echo of the whistle.” You never know what will happen down there, and that’s how it is.
When you’re blocking, and Patrick Mahomes has the ball, he can make many spectacular things happen. Just go right through the echo of the whistle and straight through everything else, and, you know, try to play with excellent technique and effort.
When switching from the pocket passing style of Tom Brady to the improvisational style of Patrick Mahomes, Thuney had to make substantial adjustments to his blocking tactics to keep up.
He has shown the seasoned wisdom necessary to discover the winning recipe with two game-changing quarterbacks, and he is now a positive influence on the younger offensive linemen on the roster.
