Jawaan Taylor is anticipated to be released by the Kansas City Chiefs ahead of the new NFL season, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. His departure will open up $20 million in cap space, easing financial pressure as the team prepares for significant changes.
Taylor, who signed a lucrative four-year, $80 million contract with the Chiefs in 2023 after joining from the Jacksonville Jaguars, carried a cap hit of $27.4 million for the 2026 season. This move follows the team’s recent restructuring of star quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ contract to free up an additional $43 million.
Career Background and Recent Performance Challenges
Selected in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Jaguars, Taylor played four full seasons there without missing a game before moving to Kansas City as a free agent. He contributed consistently during his first two seasons with the Chiefs, starting 17 games in 2023 and 16 in 2024.
However, his performance has declined, marked by frequent penalties and less effective play. An elbow injury in the past season limited him to 12 games, the first significant missed time in his seven-year career. This downturn has put his future with the Chiefs in jeopardy despite being part of the 2023 Super Bowl champions.
Chiefs’ Roster Adjustments Following a Difficult Season
The Chiefs ended their 2025 campaign with a disappointing 6-11 record, their worst since 2012, and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014. The injury to Mahomes, who suffered an ACL tear late in the season, compounded the team’s struggles.
To rebuild, Kansas City must address multiple roster gaps, with Taylor’s considerable cap hit making his release necessary. The offensive line still boasts promising players like Josh Simmons, Kingsley Suamataia, Creed Humphrey, and Trey Smith, all signed through the 2026 season, leaving only Taylor’s starting position open.
Other key Chiefs players, including tight end Travis Kelce, receiver Marquise Brown, and edge rusher Charles Omenihu, are also expected to enter free agency, signaling a major overhaul ahead for the team.
Implications for the Chiefs’ Future Lineup
Dropping Taylor will free up critical salary cap space needed to restructure and strengthen other parts of the roster after a rare lost season. The move also underscores the team’s need to find a dependable right tackle to protect Mahomes once he recovers.
With substantial changes looming, Kansas City faces significant decisions in the offseason to regain competitiveness and return to playoff contention.
Chiefs have informed OT Jawaan Taylor that he will be released before the start of the league year barring a trade, per sources.
Taylor’s release will save the Chiefs $20 million under the cap. pic.twitter.com/Tzbnw4x6xl
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 2, 2026
