Three defensive players whose jobs are at risk

DE Frank Clark

Defensive end Frank Clark has avoided the cap casualty tag for another year, yet his starting role is very precarious entering 2022.

Fans may not be sad to see Clark’s role diminish in 2022. Despite being a key player in 2019’s Super Bowl run, Clark’s tenure in Kansas City is disappointing. He never lived up to his five-year, $104 million dollar contract the Cheifs paid him after trading a first-round pick to acquire him. The hopes were high for Clark, and he fell short in every way.

Clark’s stats have steadily decreased across the board. In 2021, he posted his lowest number of sacks, tackles, and tackles for loss since coming to Kansas City. Many expected the Chiefs to cut Clark, freeing up a roster spot and some cap space. However, the Chiefs had few defensive end options outside of Clark in 2022. The team instead reworked his contract, adding another year and giving the team more financial flexibility. It was not a popular move, but one that may not matter this time next year.

Ultimately, Clark’s restructuring gives Kansas City another year to rebuild the defensive line. The team started by drafting defensive end George Karlaftis 30th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, but more needs to be done. Kansas City has several prospects at the position, including Mike Danna, Joshua Kaindoh, and Malik Herring. If one or more show promise in 2022, and Karlaftis meets expectations, then Clark is the odd man out. Karlaftis, Chris Jones, and another more athletic prospect could be the NASCAR package of the future. Why not let the kids play?

Clark has a role, as the incumbent starter, not by his immaculate performance. IF Kansas City leans into the youth movement, as they did at linebacker in 2021, then Clark will see fewer snaps. And fans rejoice at the end of the Clark era in Kansas City.