Even after winning the Super Bowl earlier this year, the Kansas City Chiefs must still find a way to optimize the Patrick Mahomes-led roster. As it stands, the most obvious candidate to be traded by the franchise is offensive tackle Lucas Niang.
Niang, once a notable Chiefs draft pick, finds himself at a pivotal moment for his career as the preseason progresses. After being sidelined for an extended period, he is poised to seize a significant opportunity in the upcoming Week 2 preseason game against the Detroit Lions.
The former third-round selection has faced numerous challenges since his draft, including injuries and competition for his position. However, this preseason is a chance for the offensive tackle to showcase his skills and make a compelling case for a prominent role on the team.
The Chiefs have been in need of solid contributions along their offensive line, making Niang’s performance all the more critical. If he can demonstrate his capability and reliability, it could lead to a substantial role in the regular season, bolstering the team’s offensive front.
The game against the Lions will be a key test for Niang, offering him the platform to prove he can overcome past setbacks and provide the impact the Chiefs need. As the preseason continues, eyes will be on him to see if he can capitalize on this crucial opportunity and solidify his position with the Chiefs.
Offensive Tackle Lucas Niang Named As Kansas City Chiefs’ Top Trade Block Candidate
While he may get an opportunity to prove his worth for the Chiefs, he still remains the top asset Kansas City has for a trade with other teams. In an NFL analysis by Ryan Fowler for Bleacher Report, the time to move Niang has to be sooner than later.
“Kansas City could feel comfortable moving on from Niang, especially if the organization believes right tackle Jawaan Taylor (still just 26 years old) can continue to improve since heading over from Jacksonville.
Niang’s trade value, despite his limited snaps, could be at its peak right now given his youth and potential. Teams that are able to ignore his injury history could take a flier on the 25-year-old Niang, banking on his upside and the possibility that he could develop into a solid starter, should he stay healthy,” Fowler wrote.
After overcoming injuries, Niang is eager to prove his worth on the field. His performance in the upcoming game could be crucial for securing a significant role in the Chiefs’ offensive lineup this season.
It remains to be seen whether he can stay in Kansas City or gets moved down the line. If it’s the latter, there’s still a good chance another team can swoop in to sign the offensive tackle to a new deal because of his upside.
