The biggest question mark for the Kansas City Chiefs is how the protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes will hold up behind a newly made offensive line. It isn't a hot take to point out that the reason why the Chiefs fell short of three straight Super Bowl wins was the struggling unit. One that has a completely new look after a hectic 2025 offseason.
This included bringing in tackle Jaylon Moore on a two-year contract, who could have a role sooner than expected.
Jawaan Taylor is the projected starter, but has dealt with a handful of injury concerns that could force Moore into the lineup. Looking at the rest of the offensive line, the biggest question marks are replacing Joe Thuney and whether or not Josh Simmons will live up to his early promise. If both of these answers are positive, there isn't going to be any slowing down Mahomes or the KC offense this season.
However, it is fair to have a level of anxiety until we have a sample size to judge how the new offensive line has gelled. Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith both remain locked into place, offering a level of stability even among a myriad of questions.
Chiefs RT Jawaan Taylor on his knee maintenance going to Brazil: "It's a long flight, just making sure I wear compression sleeves. When I get there, I'm not sure if I'm going to need to get it drained."
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) August 27, 2025
Chiefs RT Jawaan Taylor's Injury Opens Door for Jaylon Moore
A to Z Sports' Charles Goldman reported Taylor's most recent comments, where the tackle is discussing a flight to Brazil and possibly needing to get his knee drained when the team lands. This is an instant red flag as we head into opening week. Not one meaningful snap has been played, and your expected starting right tackle is dealing with knee concerns.
It sounds as if Moore is likely to get an opportunity to join Kansas City's starting lineup early on this season. Whatever is ailing Taylor doesn't sound like a simple fix. If it continues to be an issue, the Chiefs could opt to make a change and allow the starter time to rest and attempt to get back to full health. It's unquestionably an eyebrow-raising report one week away from the regular season's opening.
Moore should be completely locked in and ready to step into the starting lineup in Week 1 if needed. It's an increasing possibility for the Chiefs, and one that would give KC an instant look at its new offensive line and perhaps provide fans with an answer as to whether or not the issues have been fixed.