Meet the 2022 Chiefs: Interior defensive linemen edition

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 16: Chris Jones #95 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 42-21 in the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 16, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images)
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 16: Chris Jones #95 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 42-21 in the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 16, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images) /
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Tershawn Wharton #98 of the Kansas City Chiefs  (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
Tershawn Wharton #98 of the Kansas City Chiefs  (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /

#98 Tershawn Wharton

College: Missouri S&T
Years Pro: 3 (24 years old)
Chance of Making the Roster: High

Former Missouri S&T star, Tershawn Wharton is set to enter his 3rd season with Kansas City. With two sacks in both last season and his rookie year, Wharton has been a nice contributor to the pass rush. While defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo generally prefers bigger framed defensive tackles along the line, Wharton’s agility and ability to get upfield quickly make him a key contributor against the passing attack.  Will Wharton stay in his role or get passed by newcomer Taylor Stallworth? Training camp and the preseason will be the judge of that.

#90 Taylor Stallworth

College: South Carolina
Years Pro: 4 (26 years old)
Chance of Making the Roster: Medium

While he is not some kind of world-beater, Taylor Stallworth has a specific role to play with the Chiefs. He is a very good third-down tackle. His abilities are not flashy, but he showcases his technique and high motor during every play. Stallworth will be in fierce competition with both Khalen Saunders and Tershawn Wharton for the distinction of being the first off the sideline when linemen rotate.

#79 Cortez Broughton

College: Cincinnati
Years Pro: 3 (25 years old)
Chance of Making the Roster: On the bubble

Cortez Broughton returns for his second season with the Chiefs after a brief start to his career with the Los Angeles Chargers. Broughton was not much of a contributor last season but was active for one game. If Broughton beats out other linemen for a special teams spot, he will remain on the roster. If Dave Toub elects for another option, it seems unlikely that Broughton will be able to hold on to a roster spot.

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