KC Chiefs: Three moves to make following the 2022 NFL Draft
By Matt Conner
Sign a veteran defensive end.
The Chiefs checked one primary need off the list in the first round of the 2022 draft when they selected Purdue pass rusher George Karlaftis. The Chiefs had absolutely no one on the roster they could depend upon to anchor the defensive line outside beyond the ’22 season, and even the likes of Frank Clark who are here for the next year are hardly what you would call reliable for a full season.
While the Chiefs know they have a dependable backup in Michael Danna, the Chiefs still don’t know what they have in Joshua Kaindoh, and projecting anything for Malik Herring or other fringe roster players is a bonus.
If that makes the edges sound thin, that’s because they are. That’s why another veteran acquisition is a move the Chiefs must make here following the draft. The crowds have clamored for Melvin Ingram for months, and perhaps that will come to pass, but at this point, it’s okay if it’s Trey Flowers or Jerry Hughes.
The regular season is longer than ever and the Chiefs hope to play three or more games beyond that, depending on postseason seeding. This is a unit that needs some fortifications at some point before the well is completely dry of options.