Chiefs players who need strong performances vs. Washington Commanders

Joshua Kaindoh, Defensive End

Ever since the draft, it seemed that the Chiefs were going to roll with Frank Clark, George Karlaftis, Mike Danna, and Joshua Kaindoh at the defensive end position. But after the addition of Carlos Dunlap, his chances of making the team are not as close to 100% as it was a month ago.

Kaindoh was brought in knowing that he was always a high-ceiling, low-floor type of player. He was a five-star recruit in 2017 but didn’t quite live up to his potential during his career at Florida State. Prior to being placed on injured reserve, he recorded no statistics in three appearances in his rookie campaign in 2021.

He needs to play well in order to retain his spot on the team because he has competition behind him and as an unproven fifth-round pick, the burden of proof is on him to make the team. He has the tools of a player that can be a rotational, or even starting pass rusher, but he has yet to prove it and it is unknown whether he will live up to his potential.

He had a disappointing performance against the Bears, especially defending the run, but if he can bounce back against Washington, then his odds of making the Chiefs improve drastically.