5 Chiefs on Thin Ice Entering 2023-24 Playoffs
By Joe Summers
2. Jawaan Taylor - OT
It was a disappointing first season for Taylor, who led the NFL in penalties after signing an $80 million deal this offseason. With Donovan Smith and Wanya Morris both injured, Taylor might have to play left tackle for the Chiefs on Saturday.
He suffered an injury himself in Week 18 but returned to the game, so hopefully he'll be good to go. Provided he can play against the Dolphins, Taylor will play a critical role for a banged-up offensive line against a capable pass rush.
Gonna rewatch the game this week, but my kneejerk reaction is that Jawaan Taylor played better. No penalties and a genral lack of pressure from his side.
— Adam Best (@Arrowhead_Adam) January 1, 2024
Despite struggles in the run game, Taylor has actually been an excellent pass-blocker. Penalties are the issue, and one of the "X-Factors" for the Chiefs this postseason will be if he can cut down on those fouls.
Just about every team left has a strong defensive line and Kansas City needs Taylor's best effort.
He'll be with the organization no matter what next year due to the structure of his contract, but questions about his fit will grow louder if Taylor struggles on Saturday.
Perhaps no Chief has more to gain or lose this week than the person on the next page...