The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for a season that feels uncharacteristically uncertain, and nowhere is this more evident than at the right tackle position. As training camp looms, the question on everyone’s mind is: who will step into the critical role of protecting Patrick Mahomes’ blindside? It’s a decision that could define the Chiefs’ 2026 campaign, and personally, I think it’s one of the most intriguing storylines in the NFL right now.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the context surrounding it. Coming off their first losing season under Andy Reid, the Chiefs are in uncharted territory. The departure of Jawaan Taylor, who was both a stalwart and a source of frustration, has left a void that’s now up for grabs. Taylor’s high cap hit and inconsistent play made him a polarizing figure, but his absence creates a genuine competition—something we haven’t seen much of in Reid’s tenure.
In my opinion, the right tackle battle isn’t just about filling a spot; it’s about setting the tone for a team looking to rebound. The Chiefs’ offensive line has been a strength in recent years, but with Mahomes returning from injury, the margin for error is razor-thin. This isn’t just a positional battle—it’s a test of the team’s ability to adapt and evolve.
The Contenders: Experience vs. Upside
Jaylon Moore is the obvious frontrunner, at least on paper. Reid has called him the ‘mainstay,’ and his $18 million cap hit suggests the Chiefs have invested heavily in him. But here’s the thing: Moore has never been a full-time starter, and his performance last season was, well, underwhelming. In his two starts at right tackle, he allowed nine pressures, and his PFF grades were middling at best.
What many people don’t realize is that Moore’s experience is almost entirely on the left side, thanks to his time backing up Trent Williams in San Francisco. Switching to the right side is no small adjustment, and his struggles last season could be a preview of what’s to come. If you take a step back and think about it, the Chiefs are essentially betting on a player to excel in a role he’s barely played. That’s a risky gamble, especially with Mahomes’ health on the line.
Then there’s Esa Pole, the underdog with the higher ceiling. Pole’s journey—from being cut by the Chiefs to returning as a practice squad hero—is the kind of story that makes football so compelling. He started the final four games last season and held his own, allowing just one sack and showing flashes of potential.
From my perspective, Pole represents the future. He’s younger, hungrier, and has the athleticism to grow into the role. But Reid’s preference for continuity and veteran leadership could work against him. This raises a deeper question: are the Chiefs prioritizing short-term stability over long-term potential? It’s a delicate balance, and one that could define their season.
The Wildcard: Kahlil Benson
Let’s not forget Kahlil Benson, the undrafted rookie who’s flown under the radar. Benson started at right tackle for the undefeated Indiana Hoosiers last season, and his performance in minicamp has turned heads. While he’s a long shot, his college success and raw talent make him an intriguing dark horse.
What this really suggests is that the Chiefs’ right tackle competition isn’t just a two-man race. Benson’s presence adds another layer of complexity, and his development could be a storyline to watch in the coming years.
The Bigger Picture
This battle isn’t just about who starts Week 1—it’s about the identity of the Chiefs moving forward. Are they a team that leans on proven veterans, or one that embraces the upside of unproven talent? Reid’s decision will say a lot about where the franchise sees itself in the post-Taylor era.
One thing that immediately stands out is the pressure on Reid and the front office. A losing season has raised questions about their ability to rebuild on the fly, and the right tackle decision is a microcosm of that challenge. Get it right, and the Chiefs could return to contention. Get it wrong, and it could be another long season.
Final Thoughts
As training camp kicks off, I’ll be watching this competition closely. It’s not just about who wins the job—it’s about what their success (or failure) says about the Chiefs’ trajectory. Personally, I think Pole has the edge in terms of long-term potential, but Moore’s experience might give him the nod. Either way, this is a decision that will shape the season, and it’s one that Reid can’t afford to get wrong.
If you take a step back and think about it, this is more than just a positional battle—it’s a referendum on the Chiefs’ ability to adapt and evolve. And in a league where change is the only constant, that’s what makes this story so compelling.
