The Kansas City Chiefs have made a major move to solidify their offensive line, signing former San Francisco 49ers tackle Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million deal. This signing comes at a crucial time for the Chiefs, as they look to bolster their protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes following an up-and-down season in terms of offensive line performance.
Who is Jaylon Moore?
Jaylon Moore, a 6-foot-4, 311-pound offensive lineman, was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan. Over the past four seasons, Moore has developed into a reliable depth player, appearing in 55 games with 12 starts. His versatility has been a valuable asset, as he has played both left and right tackle when called upon.
In the 2024 season, Moore started five games at left tackle, primarily filling in for the injured All-Pro Trent Williams. Despite his limited starting experience, he performed well in those opportunities, showing solid pass-blocking ability and mobility in the run game. In 2024, he started three games and was ranked 25th out of 141 qualified tackles by Pro Football Focus, a promising indication of his ability to contribute at a high level.
Why This Move is Critical for Kansas City
The Chiefs’ offensive line has been a point of concern in recent years, particularly at the left tackle position. After losing Orlando Brown Jr. in free agency in 2023, Kansas City struggled to find a consistent solution. Donovan Smith was brought in as a veteran presence but failed to provide stability. With Mahomes facing increased pressure, improving the offensive line became a top priority this offseason.
By signing Moore, the Chiefs are making a calculated bet on a young, ascending player who has shown flashes of starting-caliber talent. While he may not have the resume of a Pro Bowl tackle, his performance in San Francisco suggests he has the tools to succeed in Kansas City’s system. The Chiefs’ coaching staff, known for developing offensive linemen, likely sees untapped potential in Moore.
Moore’s Reaction to the Signing
After the deal was announced, Moore expressed excitement about joining the Chiefs, stating:
“In my opinion, the tape doesn’t lie. I just go out there and play ball the way I know how.”
This level of confidence is exactly what Kansas City needs as they look to shore up their offensive line. Moore will have the opportunity to compete for the starting left tackle job and, if he succeeds, could be a key piece in protecting Mahomes for the next several seasons.
Final Thoughts
While some analysts have questioned the decision to entrust Mahomes’ blindside to a relatively unproven player, the Chiefs’ front office and coaching staff seem confident in Moore’s ability. If he can live up to expectations, this signing could be the move that saves Mahomes’ season by giving him the protection he needs to lead Kansas City on another deep playoff run.