The Kansas City Chiefs have officially signed former San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Jaylon Moore to bolster their left tackle position, as the franchise seeks stability after experiencing significant turmoil at the position last season. On March 10, 2025, the Chiefs agreed to terms with Moore on a two-year contract worth $30 million, which includes $21.24 million fully guaranteed at signing.
Moore, who is 27 years old, spent all four years of his NFL career with the 49ers, where he mainly served as a backup to elite left tackle Trent Williams. During his time with San Francisco, Moore played 55 games and made 12 starts. He stepped up significantly during the 2024 season when Williams suffered injuries, starting five games at left tackle. His ability to protect the quarterback showed promise, allowing only two sacks over the past two seasons across 279 pass-blocking snaps.
With the Chiefs' offensive line facing challenges last year, they relied on several players at the left tackle spot, including rookies Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris, as well as veteran D.J. Humphries. The revolving door at the position culminated when Joe Thuney, who was also recently traded to the Chicago Bears, filled the gap. The Chiefs' failures to find consistency at left tackle amplified their urgency to secure Moore's services.
By signing Moore, the Chiefs look to fill the void left by Thuney and solidify their protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who will turn 30 this September. "A new blindside protector for Patrick Mahomes: Former 49ers’ offensive tackle Jaylon Moore reached agreement today on a two-year, $30 million deal, including $21.24 million fully guaranteed at signing with the Kansas City Chiefs," ESPN's Adam Schefter reported.
This contract means expectations are high for Moore, who is now projected to serve as the starting left tackle for the Chiefs. The Chiefs are counting on the fourth-round draft pick from 2021 to step up to the demands of the role. General Manager Brett Veach noted how the addition of Moore aligns with the team's objective of revamping the offensive line, which has been among their top priorities heading beyond last season.
Moore’s experience backing up one of the league's elite left tackles might prove beneficial as the Chiefs transition him to being the primary protector of Mahomes' blind side. "If Moore can be a capable and dependable starter, the Chiefs will continue to remain one of the top Super Bowl contenders," as noted by The Athletic. Having been prepared by years under Williams, Moore brings valuable insights about the position to the Chiefs.
Despite the promising addition of Moore, the Chiefs face challenges, especially concerning their salary cap. Entering Monday, the Chiefs were more than $9 million over the cap limit of $279.2 million for the 2025 season and will need to be compliant by March 12, 2025. The franchise had already signed Trey Smith to a franchise tag worth $23.4 million, with Smith projected to secure a multiyear, lucrative deal if negotiations proceed well.
The Chiefs’ dedicated pursuit of Moore signals their commitment to building around Mahomes and reaffirming their status as Super Bowl contenders. The team had initially intended to check on the possibility of signing veteran Ronnie Stanley from the Baltimore Ravens; Stanley opted to re-sign with the Ravens. Consequently, they shifted focus to securing Moore, who they believe is underrated yet capable of stepping up and thriving under increased pressure.
With their projected starting offensive line taking shape with Moore teaming up alongside left guard Kingsley Suamataia, the Chiefs are optimistic about entering the new season with more stability. The rest of the offensive line appears set with Creed Humphrey at center, Trey Smith at right guard, and Jawaan Taylor tasked with right tackle duties.
While Moore may not boast the star power of some of his counterparts, his signing exemplifies the Chiefs’ strategic move toward securing depth and performance on their offensive line. The ability to give Mahomes ample protection could very well be the key to continuing their success as perennial Super Bowl contenders.