Chiefs LT Donovan Smith expected to start for first time since Week 13

The Kansas City Chiefs will have a veteran returning to the starting lineup against the Miami Dolphins in the wild-card round of the playoffs. 

With rookie LT Wanya Morris ruled out from the game due to a concussion, the Chiefs will turn to veteran LT Donovan Smith for Saturday evening's game against the Miami Dolphins. Asked about Smith's availability against the Dolphins, Chiefs HC Andy Reid confirmed he's ready to play after missing the past five games with a neck injury described as a stinger.

Smith told reporters this offseason that he regretted playing while hurt with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers a season ago. Now that he's returned to health, the veteran should be able to play his best football and help the offense get back on track. 

The 2023 NFL season marks the ninth campaign for the 30-year-old left tackle. He brings Super Bowl experience, having defeated the Chiefs with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Super Bowl LV. Outside of  Joe Thuney, Smith has the most playoff snaps (501) of any offensive lineman on the team.

Smith has played 749 snaps at left tackle for Kansas City this season, allowing 42 pressures, but just two sacks on the year according to PFF. He's one of just 11 offensive tackles with over 700 snaps this season to have allowed two or fewer sacks. 

There might be some concern about rust, being that Smith's last game was Week 13 against the Green Bay Packers. I'd wager the main area of concern for the veteran will be in the penalty department. His nine penalties rank 11th in the NFL among tackles, and penalties have been a big problem for Kansas City. They've stunted drives and erased some big-time plays, changing the outcomes of several games. 

Needless to say, Smith will need to be sharp against a Dolphins team that will feature several savvy veterans on the defensive line. That includes a trio of former Chiefs players in Emmanuel Ogbah, Melvin Ingram, and Justin Houston.