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Chiefs Lose Veteran Tackle to Falcons, Seek Replacement
Jawaan Taylor's departure opens up a starting spot on Kansas City's offensive line.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:52pm
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The departure of veteran tackle Jawaan Taylor leaves a hole in the Kansas City Chiefs' offensive line that the team must address.Kansas City TodayThe Kansas City Chiefs have lost veteran offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor to the Atlanta Falcons in free agency, creating a hole on their offensive line that the team will need to fill. Taylor had been a three-year starter for the Chiefs, and his departure leaves the team searching for a new option at the position, either through the draft or by signing another free agent.
Why it matters
The Chiefs' offensive line has been a strength of the team in recent years, and the loss of Taylor could create some instability if they are unable to find a suitable replacement. Protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes is a top priority, so the team will need to address this need carefully.
The details
With Taylor's release and the potential salary cap issues the Chiefs are facing, the team is looking to fill the void left at offensive tackle. The immediate backup to either tackle spot is Esa Pole, a second-year player who has room to grow, and the team may consider drafting a player who can start at some point in their NFL career at offensive tackle. The Chiefs' new coaching staff, led by offensive coordinator Eric Bienemy, may have also influenced Taylor's decision to sign with the Falcons.
- Jawaan Taylor signed with the Atlanta Falcons on April 11, 2026.
The players
Jawaan Taylor
A veteran offensive tackle who started for the Kansas City Chiefs for the past three seasons.
Esa Pole
A second-year player who is the immediate backup to the tackle positions on the Chiefs' offensive line.
Patrick Mahomes
The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, whose protection is a top priority for the team.
Eric Bienemy
The offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, who may have influenced Jawaan Taylor's decision to sign with the Falcons.
What they’re saying
“Losing a veteran like Jawaan Taylor is always tough, but it opens up an opportunity for us to evaluate our options and find the right fit for our offensive line.”
— Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs
What’s next
The Chiefs will need to determine if they want to address the offensive tackle position through the upcoming NFL Draft or by signing another free agent. They will also need to evaluate the development of Esa Pole and whether he is ready to step into a starting role.
The takeaway
The loss of Jawaan Taylor creates a significant hole on the Chiefs' offensive line, and the team will need to act quickly to find a suitable replacement in order to protect their star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, and maintain the strength of their offensive unit.
