Only Three Kansas City Chiefs Projected to Make 2023 All-Pro Team

As the 2023 NFL Season unfolds, a select handful of Kansas City Chiefs players are making their marks on the gridiron, outshining their peers and attracting All-Pro Team selection buzz. Despite the team’s star-studded roster, only three players have shone bright enough to garner such attention.

This mix of seasoned veterans and fresh faces holds up the pride and performance of the Chiefs, continuing the legacy left by stalwarts such as Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Chris Jones. Let’s delve into their journey this season and their chances of making it to the All-Pro Team.

Joe Thuney: A Beacon of Excellence in the 2023 Campaign

In the 2023 campaign, Joe Thuney has emerged as an exceptional figure, setting the standard for excellence in pass block win rate analysis. Thuney broke records, posting a pass block win rate of an astounding 99.3%, a performance surpassing his previous record of 98.9% with the Chiefs last season.

Despite the Chiefs’ offensive line not reaching previous seasons’ heights, Thuney, alongside center Creed Humphrey and right guard Trey Smith, has solidified the line’s interior. His top-notch performance, reflected in his formidable 426-3 score on pass-block duels this season, has fortified the Kansas City Chiefs odds, making Thuney a strong contender for the All-Pro Team Selection.

However, it’s worth noting that while Thuney’s outstanding pass block win rate might heavily influence selections, Pro Football Focus credits him with 31 pressures allowed in 2023. Despite this being his highest total since his 2017 tenure with the New England Patriots, Thuney remains one of the best left guards in the game.

Chris Jones: Still an Elite Defensive Tackle?

Chris Jones may not be having his most productive season regarding sacks or quarterback knockdowns, but his performance remains impressive in other areas. Despite being double-teamed on nearly 73% of his interior rushes – the highest rate for any defensive tackle – Jones still ranks fifth in pass block win rate on the interior. This is a testament to his resilience and ability to handle pressure.

Though lower than expected, his 9.5 sacks through the Chiefs’ first 17 games need to be viewed in the context of his missing the season opener due to contractual disputes. Adding to this, the “sacks created” metric credits Jones with 18.5, the highest mark in football. While he may not be dominating like he was in 2022, Jones remains one of the NFL’s premier interior defensive linemen.

The competition is fierce, but there’s no denying Jones’ critical role in the Chiefs’ defensive lineup. His continued excellence on the field makes him a viable contender for the All-Pro Team selection.

L’Jarius Sneed: Breakout Performance Garnering Significant Respect

In his breakout season, cornerback L’Jarius Sneed has emerged as a defensive force for the Chiefs. Despite not recording as many interceptions as in previous seasons, Sneed has shown a remarkable capacity to cover top-flight receivers, an essential skill given the Chiefs’ penchant for blitzing. NFL Next Gen Stats reveal his prowess as a defender — he has allowed a minimal 53.1 passer rating when he is the nearest defender in coverage this season, an impressive statistic considering the high-caliber opposition he often faces.

But the season hasn’t been perfect, either. The eight pass interference penalties committed by Sneed are the most in the league. But his overall performance, marked by superior coverage skills and competitiveness, overshadows these mistakes. In his recent game against the Cincinnati Bengals, he exemplified tenacity and a knack for shutting down top wideouts. This performance and his season-long consistency have made Sneed a powerful contender for the All-Pro Team selection.

His excellence on the field could not have come at a better time, with free agency looming in the spring. Sneed’s rise to prominence this season underscores his value, not just to the Chiefs but potentially to other teams.

The Race for the All-Pro Team Selection: Who Makes the Cut?

As the 2023 NFL Season All-Pro Team Selection race intensifies, the final cut remains uncertain. Joe Thuney, despite the pressures allowed, exhibits stellar performance, potentially placing him in the running. While not at his 2022 peak, Chris Jones remains an elite defensive tackle deserving of recognition. Lastly, L’Jarius Sneed, despite some inconsistencies, demonstrates great potential with his exceptional coverage skills.

The ultimate decision rests with the NFL selection committee, who will undoubtedly consider these players’ significant contributions while selecting the All-Pro team. Whatever the outcome, these Chiefs have shown tenacity, skill, and dedication, cementing their place in the annals of their franchise’s proud history.

In terms of the Pro Bowl Games, five Chiefs were selected to represent the AFC in Orlando. Those five include Mahomes, Kelce, Thuney, Jones, and Creed Humphrey. The surprising snub was Sneed, who may still make it as an alternate but was left off the initial AFC roster.

Conclusion

The 2023 NFL season has been a testament to the talent and resilience of the Kansas City Chiefs’ roster. Joe Thuney, Chris Jones, and L’Jarius Sneed have each left an indelible mark this season, distinguishing themselves from their peers and drawing worthy attention for All-Pro Team selection.

Despite challenges and intense competition, their performances stand as a testament to their dedication, skill, and the spirit of the Chiefs. Irrespective of the final selection outcome, these players have earned a well-deserved place in the spotlight and have made their franchise and fans proud.