Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs are off to a 2-0 start, but the path hasn't been as expected. The team anticipated former first-round pick Josh Simmons to start at left tackle, safeguarding Mahomes's blindside. Instead, undrafted free agent Kahlil Benson filled that role during their recent matchup against the Indianapolis Colts on "Sunday Night Football."

How Benson's Journey Began
Benson, hailing from Mississippi, had multiple offers from top colleges but chose Indiana on National Signing Day. A knee injury in his freshman year sidelined him for the entire 2020 season. Over the next two years, he started 17 games at right guard and right tackle but transferred to Colorado to play under Deion Sanders. After a year of battling injuries, he returned to Indiana, contributing to their College Football Playoff run.

Despite his size and strength, concerns about his hand placement and injury history likely deterred NFL teams from drafting him. An unexpected opportunity arose when the Chiefs released veteran Jawaan Taylor and Wanya Morris, while Simmons was ruled out due to a back injury.

Benson's Primetime Debut
In his first game, Benson showed promise despite some technical flaws. His primary task of protecting the quarterback was met, and he demonstrated adaptability, transitioning from right to left tackle. In Week 2, he showcased incremental improvement, credited with zero sacks and three pressures allowed across his first two starts, although he experienced a notable loss against Arden Key.

Head Coach Andy Reid acknowledged Benson's performance, noting, "There were a couple of hiccups...but I thought he did a decent job." The team's confidence in Benson was evident, as he often faced rushers without chip help, indicating Reid's trust in his abilities.