When a former All-Pro offensive tackle--especially one who helped the Kansas City Chiefs win a Super Bowl--speaks up about a position battle, the entire fanbase should take notice. That's exactly what happened this week when Mitchell Schwartz, the franchise's legendary right tackle from their 2019 championship run, publicly endorsed Jaylon Moore as the team's starting right tackle for the 2026 season.
In a league where offensive line play is perpetually under scrutiny in Kansas City, this endorsement carries significant weight. Schwartz was the model of consistency and durability during his time with the Chiefs, and his eye for offensive line talent is widely respected. So when he says Moore is the guy, it's worth unpacking why that opinion matters and what it means for a Chiefs offensive line that has undergone considerable turnover this offseason.
The Endorsement That Has Chiefs Kingdom Talking
According to a report published on May 5, 2026, Schwartz didn't just offer a casual compliment. He went on record stating that Jaylon Moore has the tools and demeanor to handle one of the most critical positions on the field: protecting Patrick Mahomes on the right side of the offensive line. While the left tackle traditionally protects the blind side of a right-handed quarterback like Mahomes, the Chiefs' offensive scheme places significant responsibility on the right tackle position, given the team's extensive use of play-action and bootlegs that flow to the right side.
"I've watched Jaylon's tape from last year and throughout the offseason program," Schwartz said. "He's got the footwork, the hand placement, and the mentality to be a starting tackle in this league. Playing in Kansas City, with that crowd and that quarterback, it's not for everyone. But I think he's ready."
For a player who hasn't yet cemented himself as a full-time starter in the NFL, hearing that from a player of Schwartz's caliber is validation. Schwartz started 134 consecutive games at right tackle between Cleveland and Kansas City, earning first-team All-Pro honors in 2018 and 2020. He knows what it takes to perform at an elite level.
Who Is Jaylon Moore?
For fans who may not be intimately familiar with the offensive line depth chart, Jaylon Moore is a tackle who joined the Chiefs after spending time with the San Francisco 49ers. Originally a fifth-round pick out of Western Michigan in the 2021 NFL Draft, Moore has primarily served as a swing tackle and depth piece during his career. He appeared in 17 games for the 49ers over three seasons, starting seven, before arriving in Kansas City.
Moore is listed at 6-foot-4 and 311 pounds, with solid length and athleticism. He has the versatility to play both left and right tackle, making him a valuable asset. With the Chiefs, he has been competing for the right tackle job throughout the offseason program and training camp.
The Chiefs' offensive line features cornerstone players like Creed Humphrey at center and Trey Smith at right guard. The left tackle position is expected to be contested between Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris, both young tackles with high upside. The right tackle spot, however, has been a question mark heading into the 2026 season.
The team also drafted Josh Simmons, a tackle from Ohio State, and added veteran depth including Ethan Driskell and Chukwuebuka Godrick. However, the competition remains open, and Moore has evidently impressed the coaching staff and a Hall-of-Fame-caliber former player in Schwartz.
Why This Endorsement Matters for the Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs face one of the most demanding offensive line situations in the NFL. Their primary mission is protecting Patrick Mahomes--arguably the league's most valuable player--while executing Andy Reid's complex offense, which emphasizes zone blocking, screen passes, and play-action that require tackles to maintain blocks on edge rushers for extended periods.
During the 2025 season, the Chiefs' offensive line was solid but not without inconsistencies, particularly at the tackle positions. The interior, anchored by Humphrey and Smith, performed at a Pro Bowl level, but the tackle spots rotated heavily. The offseason placed a premium on solidifying right tackle.
If Jaylon Moore seizes the right tackle job and performs at a starting-caliber level, the Chiefs can stabilize a vital position without rushing a rookie. Josh Simmons is still developing, and the team would likely prefer to allow him more time before starting him regularly. Meanwhile, Moore's 16 NFL games (with seven as a starter) provide valuable experience blocking high-caliber edge rushers.
Schwartz's endorsement is more than just positive talk; it is a strong indicator that Moore is trending toward becoming a reliable starter. Former players of Schwartz's stature rarely publicly endorse another player unless convinced of their readiness.
What the Film Says
Analysts who have broken down Moore's preseason tape note his impressive foot quickness and ability to mirror defenders in pass protection. While he is not an overpowering mauler, his technique aligns well with the Chiefs' schematic preferences, which prioritize mobility and precision over sheer power at tackle positions. With Trey Smith excelling at right guard as a premier run blocker, the line benefits from a balanced combination of skills.
Some concerns surround Moore's ability to handle bull-rushers who try to overpower him into the pocket. Nonetheless, Schwartz's endorsement suggests Moore has improved his hand placement and anchor technique, critical skills to withstand elite pass rushers like Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt. If Moore can consistently hold his ground, the Chiefs' offensive line will be well-positioned in 2026.
The Bigger Picture for the Offensive Line
Head Coach Andy Reid and General Manager Brett Veach have long prioritized offensive line depth. Despite a solid probable starting five, the Chiefs maintain significant versatility with multiple swing tackles and versatile interior-bodied linemen.
Currently, the roster includes 10 offensive tackles: Ethan Driskell, Chukwuebuka Godrick, Jaylon Moore, Wanya Morris, Esa Pole, Josh Simmons, Kingsley Suamataia, Matt Waletzko, Pete Nygra, and Jaylon Moore. This abundance of talent creates competitive depth but also necessitates tough roster decisions.
If Moore claims the right tackle position, the Chiefs could keep Simmons as a developmental swing tackle while Suamataia and Morris battle for left tackle duties. Having a pair of young, talented tackles waiting in the wings provides the team flexibility and succession planning for future seasons.
The interior remains anchored by Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith, with youngsters Mike Caliendo and C.J. Hanson providing depth. Such stability in the middle of the line can mask some growing pains at tackle positions, as long as those tackles remain competent starters.
What This Means for the 2026 Season
The Chiefs enter the 2026 season with high expectations for success once again. The roster is loaded on both sides of the ball, featuring Patrick Mahomes at quarterback, running back Kenneth Walker III, a deep receiving corps led by Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, second-year Jalen Royals, and the enduring Travis Kelce at tight end. Consistent protection from the offensive line is crucial if this offense is to repeat or improve its top-tier production.
Schwartz's public endorsement of Jaylon Moore adds a layer of optimism in a position that often causes fan anxiety. While Moore is not currently being pegged as a Pro Bowl candidate, having a former All-Pro veteran verbally back him signals that the Chiefs may have found a steady, reliable right tackle.
Training camp and preseason games will be the ultimate proving ground for Moore. He faces direct competition from Simmons and other linemen, and the coaching staff will make the final decision on the starting lineup based on performance. For now, Chiefs Kingdom has a reason to feel more confident that the right tackle position is securely in capable hands.
Final Thoughts
Mitchell Schwartz's endorsement is a meaningful vote of confidence. He was one of the most technically sound and durable right tackles in NFL history and played a critical role in bringing a championship to Kansas City. His opinion holds considerable weight in NFL circles.
For Jaylon Moore to have earned such praise from a former champion is a testament to his offseason dedication and development. The Chiefs' offensive line looks poised to be a team strength once again in 2026, and Moore could be the crucial piece that completes the puzzle.
With training camp still underway, all eyes remain on the right tackle competition. But if Mitchell Schwartz's assessment proves accurate, the Chiefs may have found the reliable starter they need at one of the most vital positions on the field.
And that's a win for everyone in Kansas City.