Chiefs guard Suamataia benched again, head coach says it was not punishment

Kansas City Chiefs starting left guard Kingsley Suamataia sat out the starting lineup for the second time this season on Sunday. The team lost 28 to 24 to the Denver Broncos, a result that erased an 11 point fourth quarter lead. The loss keeps the AFC West title race competitive as the season progresses.

Head coach Andy Reid addressed the decision on Monday. He stated that the reason for the benching is a private matter between him and the player. Reid confirmed that Suamataia practiced all three days before the game. He also noted that unlike the previous benching in Week 4, Suamataia was active on special teams during the contest.

Reid pushed back against suggestions that the move was a penalty. He told reporters, “I didn’t say it was a punishment, ever. This was just between Kingsley and I working some things out here. This isn’t punishment. I’ll leave it at that.” He previously used the phrase “Did I stutter?” when asked for details after the Week 4 game.

The replacement at left guard, Mike Caliendo, faced criticism for his performance. Pro Football Focus gave him a pass blocking grade of 16.8, which was the lowest among the Chiefs offensive line. Caliendo was also involved in the final play of the game, where he failed to block a hit that resulted in a sack for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

The Chiefs face the New York Jets in Week 9 on Sunday. It is not yet known if Suamataia will return to the starting role or if Caliendo will retain the position for that matchup.