The Kansas City Chiefs enter the 2026 NFL season with another roster capable of competing for a Super Bowl, but one position continues to draw scrutiny. Despite their championship pedigree, the offensive tackle position has emerged as the team’s biggest perceived weakness heading into training camp.
Kansas City addressed the position during the offseason, yet questions remain about whether the current group can consistently protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes against the league’s elite pass rushers. The uncertainty is less about talent than experience and consistency, as the Chiefs continue to rely on developing players to anchor the edges of one of the NFL’s most important offensive units.
Dec 17, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; San Francisco 49ers offensive lineman Jaylon Moore (76) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Offensive tackle has become a critical position in today’s game, particularly for a team built around an elite quarterback who thrives on extending plays. Reliable edge protection allows Mahomes to survey the field, create opportunities outside the pocket and attack defenses downfield without facing constant pressure. Any breakdown on the outside can quickly disrupt the timing of Kansas City’s explosive offense.
The running game is also closely tied to the effectiveness of the tackles. Strong play on the edge helps establish outside rushing lanes while creating balance that prevents defenses from focusing exclusively on the passing attack. If the offensive line performs at a high level, the Chiefs will have greater flexibility to attack opponents through multiple offensive approaches throughout the season.
NFL Analysis Names Offensive Tackle Position as Kansas City Chiefs’ Biggest Weakness Ahead of 2026 Season
Jul 22, 2025; St. Joseph, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs guard Jaylon Moore (77) walks down the hill to the practice fields during training camp at Missouri Western State University. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Kansas City’s offensive tackle group stands out as the team’s biggest weakness. This is detailed more in an analysis by Mike Clay for ESPN.
Biggest weakness: Offensive tackle. The Chiefs added just enough at corner to allow me to stick with offensive tackle for the third consecutive year, as Kansas City’s tackles ranked 31st in run block win rate (70.8%) last season. The head-scratching, four-year, $80 million deal handed to RT Jawaan Taylor a few years ago did not work out, and the Chiefs moved on during the offseason. They’ll now turn to long-time reserve Jaylon Moore there. Left tackle Josh Simmons was serviceable in eight appearances as a rookie, and the 2025 first-round pick is a candidate for a Year 2 leap. Kansas City is also less deep after trading Wanya Morris in June.
There are reasons for optimism despite the concerns. The coaching staff has consistently developed offensive linemen into dependable starters, and the continuity across the rest of the offensive line provides a stable environment for younger tackles to grow into larger roles. Improvement during training camp and the preseason could quickly ease concerns surrounding the position before the regular season begins.
Kansas City has overcome roster questions before, and its championship aspirations remain firmly intact entering another season. However, the development of the offensive tackle position could ultimately determine whether the Chiefs once again reach the top of the NFL, making it one of the most closely watched storylines as preparations for the 2026 campaign continue.
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