Javon Moore owned the green carpet under his cleats in the Kansas City Chiefs’ last win against the Detroit Lions. It’s hard to overstate just how dominant he was as an offensive lineman. That game was a turning point for Moore’s young career. On a personal level, he did get to welcome his third child just hours before kickoff. Moore’s dual commitments forged a more profound dedication in him, both on and off the field.
On March 1, Moore signed a two-year $30 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs that includes $21.2 million guaranteed. This substantial investment underscored the team’s confidence in his abilities and his potential to contribute significantly to their offensive line. Moore’s role evolved when the Chiefs selected Josh Simmons with the last pick in the draft’s first round. Originally not tabbed to begin the season at left tackle, Moore was suddenly in a key spot with Simmons out.
And when assigned to block Aidan Hutchinson, the Lions’ archetypal edge rusher, Moore had his work cut out. He made his mark in the midst of that pressure, dominating his position and throwing a wrench into Hutchinson’s famous spin move with masterful hand placement. Throughout the game, Moore surrendered only three pressures and one sack over 40 pass-blocking snaps, demonstrating both skill and resilience against one of the league’s best defenders.
After the game, Patrick Mahomes confidently asserted that Moore would do well.
“I have all the faith in the world in Jaylon,” – Mahomes
Mahomes praised Moore’s performance against Hutchinson, noting that it was essential for the team’s success.
“He came here to do what he did today, go out and be up against one of the premier pass rushers in the league and handle his own,” – Mahomes
In the process, Moore’s professionalism and ability to juggle the rigors of life as a professional football player and family man came to light. On the morning of game day, he flew to Miami to be with his wife, Sidney. Lady was in labor with their daughter, Selah. Even with this emotional and physical toll, Moore was ready to assume a pivotal new role on the pitch.
“That speaks to his professionalism, getting better and better through work throughout the week and being prepared to play at any moment,” – Mahomes
Moore spent most of training camp rotating between left guard, right guard and right tackle. He was so versatile that he was able to survive the hiring of a new coach and an entire revamped offensive line. That flexibility served Malone well, though, as he was prepared to rise to the challenge Hutchinson posed.
“He went out there and showcased the type of player that he is,” – Mahomes
Moore credited his teammates for looking out for him and supporting him during this tough stretch.
“It was big having my teammates have my back. That was huge for me. The biggest thing for me is earning the trust of my teammates, just to know that whenever my number is called upon I’ll be ready and there’s no need to worry,” – Moore
The Chiefs’ offensive line faced immense pressure throughout the game, but Moore’s performance stood out. He proved very effective at neutralizing Hutchinson. During those times, he exemplified elite technical prowess and extraordinary mental fortitude.
In a postgame interview, the Mavs’ first rounder looked back on the surreal experience. He underscored how deftly he juggled different obligations on such an important day.
“But I found a way. My feet were stuck [out of the couch], but you’ve got to do it,” – Moore
Yet, through everything on the field and off, an act of defiance was his salvation. Despite this, he remained deadly serious and determined to lead his team to victory.
“It’s pretty cool, but at the same time I’m just glad we got the win,” – Moore
Moore is a candidate to retake his starting job back this Sunday. Later in the day, the Kansas City Chiefs will play host to their division rivals, the Las Vegas Raiders. That great performance sealed his place on the team and showed that he was prepared to step up when needed.
Leave a Reply