The Kansas City Chiefs, fresh off a strong 9-1 start to the 2024 season, are facing questions about one of their highest-paid players: offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor.

Signed in 2023 to a four-year, $80 million deal, Taylor was expected to anchor the Chiefs’ offensive line and provide protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

However, his performance since joining Kansas City has been underwhelming. In 2023, Taylor led all offensive linemen in penalties, with issues such as false starts and holding calls disrupting the Chiefs’ offensive rhythm.

This trend has carried into the current season, as Taylor ranks among the top 10 most penalized offensive linemen. Despite showing occasional flashes of his potential as a pass-blocker, his lack of consistency has raised concerns about his long-term fit with the team.

According to ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller, the Chiefs could look to replace Taylor in the 2025 NFL Draft. Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor signed an $80 million deal in 2023.

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports One name that has emerged as a potential successor is Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons. “Right tackle Jawaan Taylor hasn’t worked out since signing a big contract before the 2023 season, leading all offensive linemen in penalties last season and ranking in the top 10 in that category this season,” said Miller. “But Simmons could be the answer.

He was trending toward OT1 status before sustaining a season-ending knee injury in October, and his recovery agility and use of length stand out.” The Chiefs have 23 penalties on the season Jawaan Taylor has 8 of them pic.twitter.com/xaXyHXc5Qo — The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) October 8, 2024 Simmons, who started his collegiate career at San Diego State before transferring to Ohio State, was regarded as one of the top offensive tackle prospects prior to his injury.

Despite the setback, scouts remain optimistic about his ability to recover and make an impact at the professional level.

As the Chiefs aim to solidify their offensive line for the future, Taylor’s performance and Simmons’ recovery will be pivotal factors in determining whether Kansas City makes a change at tackle in next year’s draft. For now, Taylor remains the starter, but his grip on the position may be slipping.