Feb 27, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kansas City Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach talks to the media at the 2024 NFL Combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images / Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Chiefs escaped Carolina with a narrow 30-27 win over the Panthers, but it’s become exceedingly obvious that Kansas City has a large problem at right tackle.

Jawaan Taylor has been a net negative overall since signing a mammoth four-year, $80 million contract. He has the fourth-largest cap hit on the team that only grows worse, representing a major mistake by general manager Brett Veach.

He doesn’t screw up often, but Veach needs to wear this one unfortunately. Patrick Mahomes was sacked five times by one of the worst defensive lines in the NFL, and Taylor was a main reason why.

#Chiefs Jawaan Taylor over the last 3 weeks:
11 pressures
5 hurries
4 sacks
4 penalties

He isn't a second year guy. He isn't a rookie LT. He got $80M in FA.

It's time we talk about this. #ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/5hSXMUxF9f

— All Chief'd Up! (@AllChiefdUp) November 24, 2024

It’s easier to write off Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris’ issues since they’re young players, but Taylor is in his sixth year and one of the highest-paid tackles in the league. His performance has been inexcusable, especially considering the opportunity cost associated with his contract.

The Chiefs can’t realistically escape it until after next season. Taylor carries a dead cap hit just shy of $35 million in 2025, though it drops to $8 million in 2026. Based on how many penalties he draws and the general ineffectiveness, expect Veach to seriously consider eating the dead cap hit instead of paying him the $26 million salary.

For now though, there’s nothing to be done. Mahomes has been relentlessly pursued all year long, causing issues with the offense, though the team still has just one loss.

Looking ahead to the playoffs against the best defensive lines in the NFL, this is an issue that could ruin Kansas City’s attempt at a three-peat. Taylor grades poorly at Pro Football Focus and fans are growing tired of the constant tackle struggles.

Here’s hoping he improves over the next two months. Otherwise, the Chiefs could have a surprise early exit against a stout opponent.