Kansas City, MO. The Kansas City Chiefs may be on the verge of bringing back a familiar piece of their offensive line, as negotiations with veteran tackle Jawaan Taylor have reportedly reopened following his recent release.

Taylor was initially let go due to his $24.7 million cap hit, a figure that became increasingly difficult for Kansas City to justify amid broader roster construction priorities.

However, sources indicate that both sides are now exploring a reunion under significantly different financial terms.

After testing the free-agent market, Taylor is believed to have found limited interest at his previous salary level.

As a result, discussions have shifted toward a short-term “prove-it” style contract, potentially in the range of $6–8 million per year, allowing the Chiefs to retain a proven starter at a much more manageable cost.

From Kansas City’s perspective, the move offers stability at a critical position. With Patrick Mahomes entering a recovery phase following injury, the organization is reluctant to place an inexperienced player at right tackle.

Taylor, who has spent multiple seasons in Andy Reid’s system, provides familiarity, communication continuity, and reliable pass protection.

While penalties have been a concern throughout his tenure, Taylor’s overall pass-blocking ability remains solid. Internally, the Chiefs view him as a safer option compared to risking Mahomes’ protection with an untested rookie or depth player.

A potential reunion would also position Taylor as a bridge solution, giving younger linemen time to develop while maintaining competitiveness in the short term.

For the player, returning on a reduced deal could represent an opportunity to rebuild value and secure one final long-term contract down the line.

There is also a growing sense that this outcome may have been anticipated. Around the league, similar releases are sometimes used as a mechanism to reset contract structures, suggesting that a lower-cost reunion between the two sides was always a realistic possibility.

If finalized, Taylor’s return would signal a pragmatic decision by both parties: a more affordable, more disciplined version of a familiar protector, helping Kansas City remain firmly in the Super Bowl conversation without compromising financial flexibility.