Defensive Linemen (9)
- Frank Clark
- George Karlaftis
- Mike Danna
- Joshua Kaindoh
- Chris Jones
- Derrick Nnadi
- Taylor Stallworth
- Tershawn Wharton
- *Free Agent Not Currently On Roster*
When I sat down to make this 53-man roster prediction, this is the only area where I’m not happy. The Chiefs don’t have enough clear NFL starting talent up front on the defense. While you can make a similar statement in the secondary, at least they have a lot of young draft picks with upside there. That’s why this is the only place on this list where my prediction is that they will add someone before the final roster cuts. Maybe it will be another pass rusher (fingers crossed for Carlos Dunlap) or maybe it will be another proven body in the middle, but they need to add another proven guy up front.
In terms of depth, Mike Danna is a lock as a solid contributor and Joshua Kaindoh should get another year to show some growth. I wouldn’t rule out Malik Herring if they don’t sign a free agent (or if Kaindoh doesn’t show any improvement). Both Taylor Stallworth and Tershawn Wharton have rotational pass rush upside on the interior, but I’m not sure either can help stuff the run. The Chiefs could keep Khalen Saunders if they want another big body, but for whatever reason, it just doesn’t seem like the Chiefs trust him to have any kind of important role. It wouldn’t surprise me if he ends up catching on with another team and earning a role there.
Now let’s talk about K.C.’s young linebacker group.