The 2024 NFL Draft class is shaping up to have an incredibly talented pool of offensive tackle prospects, and the Kansas City Chiefs are certainly keeping a close eye on these potential game-changers. As right tackle Jawaan Taylor integrates into his long-term contract, the responsibility of protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes’s blind side rests on the shoulders of Wanya Morris, a third-round pick from 2023. This scenario raises the stakes for the Chiefs as they evaluate their options heading into the draft.

At the recent NFL Combine, discussions revealed that the Chiefs engaged with one of the top offensive tackles in the draft: Oregon State’s Taliese Fuaga. Fuaga confirmed that he had a conversation with the Chiefs’ head coach, Andy Reid, highlighting the team’s proactive approach in scouting talented players to bolster their roster.

Here’s what you need to know about this promising prospect:

Understanding Taliese Fuaga’s Journey and Skills

Taliese Fuaga, a three-star recruit from Tacoma, Washington, committed to Oregon State in the 2020 class. After two seasons with limited playing time, he emerged as the starting right tackle in 2022, quickly establishing himself as a key player. His impressive performance earned him second-team All-Pac 12 honors in his inaugural year as a starter, followed by a first-team selection in 2023, showcasing his growth and determination on the field.

Deciding to declare for the draft as a redshirt junior, Fuaga participated in both the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine. At the Combine, he measured in at an impressive 6 feet 6 inches and 324 pounds, with hand measurements of 10 1/8 inches and arm lengths of 33 1/8 inches. His size and physical attributes make him a formidable presence on the offensive line.

Fuaga’s performance in drills at the Combine was noteworthy, particularly his remarkable athleticism for a player of his size. He recorded a 32-inch vertical leap and an impressive 9-foot-3 long jump, indicating his explosiveness and agility, which are crucial for a tackle’s ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes.

Analyzing Game Film: Fuaga’s Impact on Oregon State’s Offense

The Oregon State Beavers showcased an explosive offense in 2023, and the efficiency of their offensive line was a significant factor in their success. The team averaged nearly 32 points per game, benefiting from a reliable running game and a dynamic downfield passing attack, both of which were supported by Fuaga’s strong play at right tackle.

Fuaga has the ability to set the tone on the front side of running plays, utilizing his combination of size and agility to engage defensive linemen and drive them back with his powerful legs. This skill creates ample space for ball carriers to build momentum and find running lanes. Additionally, he displays impressive awareness as a run blocker, adept at reading defensive fronts and adjusting his responsibilities on the fly.

Fuaga’s agile movements begin right off the snap. As a run blocker, he demonstrates clean, consistent footwork that he syncs with precise snap timing to position himself effectively. He also takes great angles to reach the second level, showcasing his ability to operate in space despite his size.

While Fuaga has the potential to transition to guard at the next level, he deserves an opportunity to continue playing tackle, where his skills can be fully utilized.

Fuaga’s impressive footwork is evident in his pass sets as well, where he effectively manages depth against outside rushers or executes jump sets against edge defenders. As these plays unfold, he demonstrates his ability to mirror rushes and their counter-moves, thanks to his strong foundation. His wide base allows him to maintain balance while adjusting direction in response to incoming rushers.

These traits are particularly evident when he encounters power rushes. Fuaga excels at maintaining his leverage by locking out his arms while engaged with defenders, which helps him create a broader base to mitigate the defender’s penetration.

His ability to handle power rushes shines through when facing stunts as well. Fuaga displays the discipline to remain square to the line of scrimmage, ensuring that when an edge rusher loops inside, he is prepared to counter the interior rush’s power directed at his inside shoulder.

Evaluating Fuaga’s Fit Within the Kansas City Chiefs’ Strategy

Overall, Taliese Fuaga embodies the characteristics of a long-term NFL lineman. His physical build and athletic capabilities position him to make a significant impact at the professional level. This potential is reflected in his ranking as the 14th overall prospect on The Athletic’s consensus Big Board as of February 21. In the latest Top 50 rankings, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah placed him 10th, underscoring his promising future.

However, it is important to note that Fuaga may not be the Chiefs’ long-term solution at left tackle. This is primarily due to his occasional limitations as a pass protector; he tends to overset and can lose balance when facing skilled speed rushers.

This was evident when UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu managed to exploit Fuaga’s balance by threatening him with speed. Fuaga’s hand placement became inconsistent as he attempted to handle the dynamic rush, leading to pressure from the inside.

Should the draft unfold favorably, Fuaga could be an enticing option for the Kansas City Chiefs. However, there is a notable caveat: his fit within the current team structure. He has primarily played as a right tackle throughout his career, which may limit where he can be most effective on the Chiefs’ roster. While he could potentially transition to guard, maximizing his skills as a right tackle may yield better results.

If the Chiefs were to select Fuaga, his optimal position would likely be at right tackle. Should there be an opportunity at guard, he could emerge as a high-caliber player for the team, contributing significantly to their offensive line strength.