What Does the Future Look Like for Jawaan Taylor?
When the Kansas City Chiefs signed Jawaan Taylor to a four-year, $80 million deal in 2023, they expected him to be a long-term solution at offensive tackle. After two seasons of inconsistent performance, that expectation is now in question. Taylor was flagged repeatedly in 2024 and struggled in pass protection, particularly on Mahomes’ blind side. His issues with timing and technique have raised concerns inside the building, and entering 2025, his starting job is far from a secure lock-in.
Kansas City’s front office made this clear with two major additions to the position group this offseason. The Chiefs signed veteran Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million deal after his steady play with the 49ers. Moore brings experience, toughness, and strong fundamentals, as well as the capability to step in immediately at left tackle. His contract reflects the team’s belief that he could be more than just a backup or insurance policy.
In addition, the Chiefs used their first-round pick on Josh Simmons, a talented and athletic lineman out of Ohio State. Simmons may need time to adjust to the pro level, but his upside is undeniable. Coaches have already praised his footwork, flexibility, and eagerness to learn during minicamp. With Moore already in the mix and Simmons developing quickly, Taylor now finds himself in the middle of a true position battle for the first time in Kansas City.
Taylor still has a chance to keep his job if he can clean up the penalties and improve his consistency in both run blocking and pass protection. His athletic profile and starting experience provide him with an edge if he can show growth. However, the Chiefs are prioritizing protecting Mahomes above all else, and they now have multiple alternatives if Taylor doesn’t rise to the occasion. With expectations high in Kansas City, the margin for error on the offensive line has gotten much smaller, especially after getting exposed in last year's Super Bowl.
Taylor entered Kansas City as a major free agent investment, but entering 2025, the depth chart around him tells a different story. With Moore and Simmons both pushing for snaps, Taylor will need to earn his role rather than assume it is already his. The competition at left tackle will be one of the top storylines in camp. These vital results could shape the Chiefs’ offensive success this fall.
