The Kansas City Chiefs have made a significant move in securing their offensive line for the upcoming season by signing former San Francisco 49ers left tackle Jaylon Moore. The decision comes as the Chiefs aim to strengthen a line that struggled during the previous season, contributing to their Super Bowl loss.
Moore, who started just three games in the 2024 season, already demonstrated promise by ranking 25th out of 141 qualified tackles on Pro Football Focus, proving to be a bright spot despite limited game time. His signing is particularly crucial given the Chiefs’ recent losses, including the trade of All-Pro guard Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears and the departure of safety Justin Reid to the New Orleans Saints.
As reported by Harold Kuntz of FOX 4 KC on March 20, 2025, Moore expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Chiefs, stating, "In my opinion, the tape doesn't lie. They see something in me so I'm excited to go balls to the walls for these guys." This sentiment reflects his eagerness to make a significant impact on his new team and fill the gaps that were left unaddressed during last season.
Chiefs general manager Brett Veach has clearly prioritized the left tackle position, as the team faced struggles last season that forced four different players to start at the position. Thuney had even moved from guard to left tackle as a last-ditch effort before the Chiefs were overwhelmed by the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl. With the left side of the offensive line widely viewed as the biggest question mark heading into the new season, Moore is expected to stabilize that area, allowing star quarterback Patrick Mahomes to perform at his best.
Moore is not new to the rigors of the NFL, having filled in for 49ers standout Trent Williams over a five-game stretch last season and showing some success by only allowing one sack during that time. “Patrick Mahomes is going to love what Jaylon brings,” said Elijah Mitchell, a running back who played with Moore in San Francisco. “He can protect. I’m excited for him.” Moore’s transition to the Chiefs also involves learning from the guidance and standards set by his former teammate Williams, which he believes will enhance his performance.
“It was everything I could have imagined,” Moore remarked, reflecting on his time studying behind Williams. “You kind of sit in the film room every day, and I sort of set a standard for myself. And with that standard, every day, I applied what I learned.”
Speaking to the media, Moore highlighted the significance of this opportunity. "It's a great organization, a great team. Everything that I’ve heard from the outside, having teammates that came from the organization, I know it’s top tier and I’m excited," he said. This excitement comes not just from joining a competitive team, but also from the possibility of reviving a career that has seen him largely playing backup roles in his previous seasons.
After the Chiefs signed Moore to a two-year contract worth $30 million, with $21.2 million guaranteed, it’s clear the team has high hopes for him. Moore’s success could lead him to earn a long-term extension if he performs well enough to earn the trust of his new organization. Conversely, if he struggles to deliver, the Chiefs may find themselves back at square one in addressing one of the key positions on the field.
The hopes for a solid offensive line hinge on more than just Moore’s arrival. The Chiefs still need to address the struggles that led to last season's disappointing finish. Kingsley Suamataia was initially slated as last season’s starting left tackle but has now been transitioned to guard, while Wanya Morris has been labeled a draft bust. Meanwhile, D.J. Humphries, who started for two games before succumbing to injury, remains a free agent.
With training camp on the horizon, all eyes will be on Moore and the Chiefs’ offensive line to ensure that Patrick Mahomes is well-protected as they pursue a return to Super Bowl contention. Moore’s new role is not just about filling in a slot but holds the potential to redefine the Chiefs’ offensive strategy going forward. The team and fans alike are eager to see if he can live up to the expectations set before him, especially considering the high stakes in a competitive league.
As March unfolds, the Chiefs are actively reshaping their roster in preparation for the 2025 season, and Moore’s contributions will certainly play a significant role in how the offensive line fortifies itself. With the moves already made and the players brought in, Kansas City’s championship aspirations are back on the table, with Moore being a key factor in the unfolding narrative.
