Jawaan Taylor signs with Falcons, leaving Chiefs without key offensive tackle option

The former Chiefs right tackle's new deal in Atlanta removes a potential short-term safety net for Kansas City's offensive line.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:00pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football offensive line, with sharp planes of red, gold, and black representing the Kansas City Chiefs and Atlanta Falcons colors.The departure of Jawaan Taylor leaves the Chiefs' offensive line in flux, requiring a creative solution to solidify the tackle positions.Kansas City Today

Former Kansas City Chiefs right tackle Jawaan Taylor has signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, filling a need created by the sudden retirement of Kaleb McGary. This move takes away a potential short-term option for the Chiefs, who had released Taylor last month due to his $20 million cap hit. The Chiefs now have Jaylon Moore and Esa Pole as the top options at offensive tackle, with a potential draft pick also in the mix.

Why it matters

The loss of Taylor removes a veteran safety net for the Chiefs' offensive line, which will need to be addressed through the draft or other free agent signings. The team must ensure they have both tackle positions solidified for the near and long-term future, as injuries and personnel changes could create vulnerabilities on the offensive line.

The details

Taylor, who started 3 seasons for the Chiefs, was released last month due to his $20 million cap hit. The Falcons signed him to a 1-year, $5 million deal with $1 million in incentives to step in as their starting left tackle after the sudden retirement of Kaleb McGary. In Kansas City, Jaylon Moore is currently slated to replace Taylor at right tackle, but he has more experience at left tackle. Esa Pole is the top backup option, while Wanya Morris could be pushed off the roster if the Chiefs don't add more competition at offensive tackle through the draft.

  • On April 11, 2026, reports surfaced of Jawaan Taylor signing with the Atlanta Falcons.
  • In August 2025, Falcons right tackle Kaleb McGary suffered a season-ending knee injury on the final day of training camp.
  • Eight months later, in April 2026, McGary announced his retirement.

The players

Jawaan Taylor

A former starting right tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs who has now signed with the Atlanta Falcons on a 1-year deal.

Jaylon Moore

The Chiefs' current projected starter at right tackle, with more experience at left tackle.

Esa Pole

The top backup offensive tackle option for the Chiefs behind Jaylon Moore.

Wanya Morris

A Chiefs offensive tackle who could be pushed off the roster if the team adds more competition at the position through the draft.

Kaleb McGary

The former Falcons right tackle who suddenly retired after suffering a season-ending knee injury.

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What’s next

The Chiefs will need to address their offensive tackle situation, either through the upcoming NFL Draft or additional free agent signings, to ensure they have both tackle positions solidified for the 2026 season and beyond.

The takeaway

The loss of Jawaan Taylor as a potential short-term option removes a veteran safety net for the Chiefs' offensive line. The team must now focus on finding a long-term solution at offensive tackle, either through the draft or free agency, to protect their quarterback and provide stability up front.