The Kansas City Chiefs' offense is almost trying to thread a needle while wearing oven mitts. They’re moving the ball, sure, but then comes a stumble, a self-inflicted wound that kills the drive. These hiccups feel alien for a franchise accustomed to operating with the precision of a master watchmaker. It’s a frustrating puzzle, and the solution might require a difficult decision on a massive investment.
The name of the puzzle is right tackle Jawaan Taylor. Through three weeks, Taylor leads the entire NFL with seven penalties, which isn't a new trend; it's an expensive habit. The Chiefs signed him to a four-year, $80 million deal in 2023 to protect Patrick Mahomes. Instead, his flags are consistently putting the offense behind the chains.
Chiefs OT Jawaan Taylor Is on Thin Ice in Week 4
Chiefs fans aren't afraid to hide their frustration towards Taylor's slow start, and it's clear that the coaching staff feels similarly.
“The penalties, that can't happen,” Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said on Sept. 11. “We've made it loud and clear. Jawaan knows that.”
The analytics paint an equally grim picture. Taylor’s overall Pro Football Focus grade of 45.0 ranks a dismal 90th out of 101 qualifying tackles. His run-blocking grade is even worse, sitting at 97th (41.9). So, it's not just the penalties. It's a combination of poor performance and drive-killing mistakes. This dual failure is why his grip on the starting job is so shaky. The patience within the organization must be wearing dangerously thin.
Offensive line coach Andy Heck addressed the issue directly on Thursday.
“Penalties, going backwards, is not good for the football team. The only guy that can fix that is him right there,” Heck stated. "I've seen him make a conscious effort to do that."
The situation is so precarious that fans and analysts are openly discussing his replacement. The Chiefs signed veteran Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million contract this offseason, a clear signal they sought insurance. They also used a first-round pick on Josh Simmons. The front office, it seems, saw this storm brewing.
Jawaan Taylor Must Be Beter vs. Ravens in Week 4
All eyes will be glued to the right tackle spot when the Baltimore Ravens come to town. The first major signal will be the penalty count. Another false start or holding call on a critical down, especially one that negates a big play, could be the final straw. The Chiefs’ margin for error against a desperate 1-2 Ravens team is zero.
And the postgame press conferences might just provide key insights. If Reid’s tone shifts from supportive to blunt, changes are coming. Phrases like 'we need to look at everything' or a simple 'we need better' would speak volumes. Meanwhile, strong praise for Taylor would indicate he’s bought himself another week.
The Chiefs have invested too much money, draft capital, and legacy to let penalties unravel it all. Taylor knows it. Moore’s ready. Reid’s watching. And come Sunday, if Taylor’s foot twitches early, Arrowhead might erupt—not in cheers, but in groans.