Why the Chiefs Need More Discipline From Jawaan Taylor
The Kansas City Chiefs’ 2025 season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers was supposed to highlight their offensive firepower, but instead it raised a familiar concern. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor once again found himself at the center of criticism after a string of penalties that disrupted Kansas City’s rhythm in a 27-21 defeat. For a player tasked with protecting Patrick Mahomes and anchoring the edge of the offensive line, his lapses are becoming too costly to ignore.

In the Week 1 clash, Taylor was flagged three times — two false starts and one holding call. Each penalty stalled momentum, wiped away gains, and left the Chiefs in long-yardage situations. At a time when the offense was already thin with Rashee Rice suspended and Xavier Worthy injured, those mistakes stood out even more.
This isn’t an isolated issue. In 2023, Taylor finished near the top of the league in penalties among offensive linemen with 20 infractions during the regular season. The following year, he added 14 more, often in crucial moments when discipline was most needed. Defensive coordinators now anticipate his tendency to move too early, baiting him into drive-killing false starts.
The Chiefs can’t simply cut his snaps — his role at right tackle is too critical. Instead, the team must focus on discipline, technique, and accountability. Offensive line coach Andy Heck and head coach Andy Reid need to demand cleaner execution while still trusting Taylor to use his athleticism and power to secure the edge. A reduction in penalties, not playing time, is the real solution.
Taylor’s size and skill set remain valuable, and when he avoids mental errors, he has proven capable of holding down one of the league’s toughest positions. But protecting Mahomes requires consistency, not just potential. If Kansas City wants its offense to operate at full strength, Jawaan Taylor must cut down the flags and match his physical talent with sharper discipline.










