Andy Reid Responds to Claims of Punishing Chiefs Starter After Benching Against Broncos

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid denied that benching starting left guard Kingsley Suamataia against the Denver Broncos was a disciplinary punishment. Suamataia was replaced by backup Mike Caliendo for 69 offensive snaps in the Week 8 loss. Reid told KSHB 41 that the situation was simply between the two of them working things out rather than any formal punishment.

Caliendo struggled in relief, surrendering five pressures and allowing Patrick Mahomes to be sacked on the final play. Suamataia had practiced fully all week and previously held a 3.8% pressure rate before being sidelined. Tight end Travis Kelce publicly voiced support for Suamataia, noting that the team considers him family and expects him back.