The focus of the Kansas City Chiefs' 2025 offseason was on attempting to bring stability and find answers along the offensive line. While the Super Bowl loss was the most glaring example, it had been a consistent problem throughout the regular season. The greatness of Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid simply covered up one of the few liabilities on a great roster. Still, there is reason to wonder what the unit is going to look like moving forward.
Rookie Josh Simmons offers potential stability at left tackle, while stalwarts Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith return at center and right guard. The biggest concerns at question marks are at the left guard and right tackle positions. This includes returning starter Jawaan Taylor, who had more than his share of frustrating moments in the 2024 season.
Chiefs' Tackle Jawaan Taylor Should Consider Himself Put on Notice Heading into Week 1
When the Chiefs brought in Jaylon Moore on a two-year $30 million deal, there was instant reason to wonder what Taylor's future could look like. Add in the fact that the starter already has a lingering injury, and pointing out that the starter is on thin ice is a bit of an understatement. Kansas City will no longer deal with struggles at the position while there is a viable option on the active roster.
Moore had some great moments with the San Francisco 49ers and would likely benefit from joining Andy Reid's starting lineup. While Taylor has the edge based on his tenure, it wouldn't be surprising to see the franchise quickly pivot. Whether it is due to injuries or poor play in the game itself, the Chiefs' starting right tackle must take notice of the addition and understand the sense of urgency that must emerge if he is going to retain the starting role.
The other major concern remaining is attempting to replace Joe Thuney by moving a struggling draft pick to the inside. Kingsley Suamatala is going to start the season at left guard and gives Kansas City two possible concerns along its offensive line. The good news for fans is the fact that as long as Simmons works out as expected, this line can be rebuilt on the fly.
Already, you have a great option at right tackle, potentially pushing Taylor out of the starting lineup. While the prospects aren't as exciting at guard, the Chiefs will have the trade deadline and free agency to find an easier answer on the inside. It is something fans should expect Brett Veach to be far more aggressive about after learning his lesson from the frustrating Super Bowl loss.
Kansas City now understands and is motivated by how things played out at the end of last year. It was bad enough not to give Mahomes a prayer of making plays or clawing back into the game. This puts both Taylor and Kingsley instantly in the crosshairs to start the 2025 season. Whether it is due to injury concerns or not getting the job done, don't be surprised if the franchise quickly pivots in another direction.