Kansas City, Mo. ? The National Football League is a tough place under the best circumstances. For Jordan Black, who keeps being switched from left to right, guard to tackle, it’s especially grueling.

Unless 10-time Pro Bowler Willie Roaf makes a miracle recovery this week, Black, a third-year man out of Notre Dame, will step in for him at left tackle against Oakland on Sunday night.

It’s not an ideal situation for either the Chiefs or Black. They all know the Raiders are certain to attack what could be a vulnerable spot in the Chiefs’ high-powered attack.

“Of course. That’s what I would do if I was a defensive coordinator,” said the 6-foot-5, 305-pound Black.

The good news for the Chiefs offensive line on Wednesday was the return of right tackle Kevin Sampson. Black was filling in for him against the Jets on Sunday when Roaf went out in the first half because of what everyone initially thought was a severe hamstring injury.

Black immediately was moved over to the left side. And while everyone agreed that Black was not at fault, the offense, which had produced 17 points on its first three possessions, managed only 10 more the rest of the day. Quarterback Trent Green, who had hit his first eight passes, began to struggle.

“Jordan Black did well,” said head coach Dick Vermeil. “The Jets defense started to make some adjustments.”

Still, moving from left to right and right to left is not a simple matter, especially in an offense that relies on subtlety, shifts and motions as Kansas City’s does.

“Willie could be miraculously healed tomorrow,” said Black. “But I have to prepare myself like I am going to play left tackle this week. I’ve just got to do everything I can to be prepared.”