Returning KC Chiefs who will make an impact down the stretch

Alex Okafor

Alex Okafor’s tenure with the Chiefs has paired solid production with a frustrating series of injuries, but there’s no denying that he’s a consistent contributor when he’s able to play.

The veteran defensive end first came to the Chiefs before the 2019 season on a three-year deal signed in free agency. He was brought in to start opposite Frank Clark as new imports for Steve Spagnuolo’s completely remade defensive front, and Okafor held down the envisioned spot for much of last year. However, a pectoral injury ended his season early and he closed the year on injured reserve.

This year, Okafor has been hampered by a hamstring issue that has knocked him out for two separate stints. Okafor missed Week 2 and Week 3 with a hamstring injury only to return for the next three games. Against the Bills, Okafor left again with a hamstring problem and he subsequently missed the Chiefs win over the Broncos.

It’s unknown when Okafor might return, but the Chiefs placed him on IR, which means he will sit at least three games if not more. The upside is that the Chiefs are very deep at defensive end, so Okafor’s role isn’t as prominent as it was a year ago. That said, he’s still a missing piece with a spot waiting for him when he’s healthy and ready.