The Kansas City Chiefs‘ defense is the sum of its parts, thriving under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo in recent seasons. This offseason, the franchise is making a move to ensure one of its most promising young building blocks stays in town for years to come.
According to a July 20 report from Adam Schefter of ESPN, Kansas City has agreed to terms with defensive end George Karlaftis on a long-term contract extension.
“Chiefs and 2022 first-round pick George Karlaftis reached agreement today on a four-year $93 million contract extension that includes $62 million guaranteed, per his agency the Win Sports Group,” Schefter’s post on X began. “Karlaftis posted 24.5 sacks during his first three seasons in Kansas City – and now will continue as a focal point of the Chiefs’ defense.”
https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1947014972124356991
George Karlaftis Earns Sizable Contract Extension With Chiefs
In a separate post, Schefter mentioned Karlaftis is under contract for six more seasons. That ensures the former Purdue standout will remain with the Chiefs through 2030. It’s a sizable commitment for both sides over the next handful of years.
At $23.25M as reported, Karlaftis’ average annual value on the extension ranks 10th among edge rushers. Additionally, his guaranteed funds now sit inside the top 10 at eighth. Karlaftis, who was already set to account for $3.8M and $15.2M against the cap in 2025 and 2026, respectively, gets a noteworthy raise. He’s also ranked alongside some serious company.
In three seasons with the Chiefs, Karlaftis has quite the resume. Not only has he consistently been available, but he has 115 tackles and 56 quarterback hits since entering the league. On top of that, the former No. 30 overall pick has 15 passes defended and a pair of fumble recoveries to boot. His playoff total of 8 sacks in 10 games certainly stands out.
According to Pro Football Focus, Karlaftis’ 68.4 overall grade was 63rd out of 211 edge players last year. That includes a 69.5 pass rush grade that slotted in at 45th. Karlaftis has 125 pressures in his last two seasons, which provides a healthy floor for Spagnuolo’s defensive line.
https://x.com/AlbertBreer/status/1947023824664305690
Kansas City Defense Set to Maintain Elite Reputation in 2025
This marks the continuation of a busy couple of weeks for the Chiefs. Prior to the start of training camp, right guard Trey Smith was inked to a hefty four-year extension. Just four days later, second-round pick Omarr Norman-Lott signed his rookie contract. The latter will work with Karlaftis in close quarters over the next few years on the defensive line.
Don’t get it twisted: Chris Jones is still the heart and soul of the Chiefs’ defense. The pass rush goes as he does. Still, the club is rewarding a young player who’s set a very consistent expectation for his play. At worst, Karlaftis is a high-effort option and someone who plays quality run defense. At his best, he can get an occasional quick win and rise for the biggest of challenges. He helps the defense earn its credibility.
Entering the season, Karlaftis will headline a defensive end room with multiple names worth keeping an eye on. Mike Danna, Charles Omenihu and former first-round pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah all project to earn snaps this year. Rookie third-rounder Ashton Gillotte is also in the mix.
Of that group, Karlaftis is the straw that stirs the drink. Now, he’s officially getting paid like such.
