• Andy Reid decision to support right tackle Jawaan Taylor despite his league-high penalties has sparked fan backlash.
• Patrick Mahomes has been sacked only six times in 2025, but the offensive line’s nine penalties are a growing issue.
• The Chiefs’ Week 3 win over the Giants showed solid run blocking, though Taylor’s flags remain a problem.
• Fans voiced frustration on social media, believing penalties are costing Kansas City potential wins.
• The Week 4 matchup against the Ravens will put Reid’s strategy and the offensive line under the spotlight.

As an NFL fan who’s watched coaching calls spark fiery debates, I can say Andy Reid’s Chiefs decision to back right tackle Jawaan Taylor is stirring up Kansas City. After a 22-9 win over the New York Giants in Week 3’s “Sunday Night Football,” Reid’s defense of Taylor, despite his penalties, has fans buzzing. With Patrick Mahomes dodging pressure like he’s in a streetball game, let’s unpack this choice and its impact on the Chiefs’ 2025 season. All stats are current as of September 25, 2025.

Read also: NFL Week 4 Predictions: Top Picks and Insights for an Exciting Weekend

Week 3: A Win With a Catch

Kansas City notched their first victory, with Mahomes going 22-for-37 for 224 yards and a touchdown against a tough Giants front. Despite the pressure, Mahomes has been sacked just six times this season—a top NFL mark. 

But the offensive line’s nine penalties in three games, six from Taylor (two false starts, three holds), are a red flag. Taylor’s tied for the most penalties league-wide, echoing his 14-flag 2024 season. It’s like a chef with a signature dish who keeps spilling the sauce—great talent, costly errors.

Reid’s Perspective: Trust in Taylor

On Wednesday, Reid praised Taylor’s pass protection, noting he hasn’t allowed a sack this year. “When he avoids flags, he’s among the best tackles,” Reid said, highlighting the line’s strong run blocking against the Giants. 

Reid’s loyalty is no shock—he rarely throws players under the bus—but with the Chiefs at 1-2, this Andy Reid Chiefs decision is drawing scrutiny. It’s like sticking with a car that keeps breaking down: you trust the engine, but the breakdowns hurt.

Fans Aren’t Holding Back

Chiefs fans took to social media, venting their frustration:

• “Taylor’s penalties are killing drives. We could be 3-0!” one fan tweeted.
• “Reid won’t call him out, but Taylor got beat bad,” another said.
• “Flags every game? That’s not top-tier,” a third wrote.
• “Andy, this is frustrating!” another posted. Fans see Taylor’s penalties as missed points, like a golfer shanking putts on the green.

Why It’s Critical for Week 4

At 1-2, the Chiefs face a must-win game against Lamar Jackson’s Ravens (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS | Paramount+). The offensive line’s discipline will be key against Baltimore’s relentless defense. If Taylor stays clean, Mahomes could carve up the secondary. More penalties, though, could spell disaster. It’s like a tightrope walk—one misstep could derail the game plan.

Can Taylor Deliver?

Reid’s faith in Taylor is bold, banking on his sack-free record. If Taylor tightens up his discipline, he could quiet the critics. For now, every play is a chance to prove Reid right.

Final Thoughts

As a Chiefs fan who’s ridden the highs and lows, I feel the frustration—penalties sting when you’re chasing a championship. Reid’s choice to stick with Taylor shows belief in his potential, but the proof is in the performance. 

With the Ravens looming, I’m hoping Taylor steps up, protecting Mahomes and turning this controversy into a strength. Grab your game-day gear and let’s see if Kansas City can flip the script.

Aliha

Hi, I’m Aliha! I’ve been a huge NFL fan for as long as I can remember, and I love sharing my thoughts, updates, and insights about the game. Whether it’s big plays, team news, or behind-the-scenes stories, writing about the NFL gives me a chance to connect with fellow fans who share the same passion for football.