In the realm of NFL analysis, rumors are circulating that the Kansas City Chiefs are contemplating a trade involving tackle Lucas Niang as he heads into the final year of his contract. The left tackle position for the Chiefs has been a source of concern, especially after Donovan Smith’s lackluster performance in his first year with the team. As a result, the Chiefs turned to the NFL Draft to secure a long-term protector for star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia and incumbent Wayna Morris are currently locked in a battle for the starting job, leaving former third-round pick Lucas Niang as a potential trade target.
Lucas Niang, who was drafted 96th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft out of TCU, finds himself in a precarious position as he enters the final year of his rookie contract without a clear path to playing time. With Morris and Suamataia vying for the left tackle spot and Jawaan Taylor locked in at right tackle, Niang’s future with the team is uncertain. In a recent article for Bleacher Report, analyst Ryan Fowler suggested that the Chiefs should consider trading Niang to capitalize on his value and potentially bolster their roster for the upcoming season.
The New Orleans Saints have emerged as a potential landing spot for Lucas Niang, as they are in desperate need of help on the offensive line. With quarterback Derek Carr struggling under pressure and a patchwork offensive line, the Saints could benefit from adding a player of Niang’s caliber. While Niang has faced challenges with consistency and injuries in his early career, the Saints cannot afford to be picky when it comes to improving their offensive line. Head coach Dennis Allen’s job security hangs in the balance, making a trade for Niang a high-stakes decision for the team.
Similarly, the Carolina Panthers are keeping a close eye on the situation surrounding Niang, as they lack a solid Plan B at the tackle position. While there are hopes that Ekwonu will emerge as the team’s blindside protector, Niang presents a viable alternative if things do not go according to plan. The Panthers may be able to acquire Niang at a reasonable cost, potentially in exchange for a late-round draft pick, providing much-needed insurance for their offensive line.
As the NFL offseason unfolds, the trade rumors surrounding Lucas Niang continue to gain traction, with multiple teams eyeing the talented tackle as a potential solution to their offensive line needs. Only time will tell where Niang ends up, but one thing is for certain – his impending trade could have significant implications for multiple teams in the league.
(Main Photo: Bob Self – USA Today Sports)
