KC Chiefs rookie report: George Karlaftis continues hot streak

George Karlaftis, Defensive End (Round 1, Pick 30)

Saturday was one of the most productive games of the season for George Karlaftis. Furious George racked up one sack, five total pressures, a fumble recovery, and two defensive stops. He also had his best game of the season defending the run and did not miss a tackle for the second consecutive game.

The Chiefs’ second first-round pick of the 2022 draft was also arguably the most important of them all. Arguably Kansas City’s biggest flaw heading into the season was their pass rush and Karlaftis was expected to be part of the solution. He had a relatively quiet start to the season but now has six sacks over the last seven games. If he can find another gear in the playoffs, the Chiefs will be difficult to beat.

Jaylen Watson, Cornerback (Round 7, Pick 243)

After seeing his snaps decrease between Weeks 9 and 12, Jaylen Watson has seen his playing time go up in recent games. Against the Raiders, he played 47 defensive snaps, 41 in coverage, and was only targeted three times, allowing just one catch for 13 yards. That lone catch was against Davante Adams in man coverage, so one can’t blame him that much.

It appears that Jaylen Watson has surpassed Joshua Williams on the cornerback depth chart and he will be a key player on the defense if the Chiefs want to have a successful playoff run.

Trent McDuffie, Cornerback (Round 1, Pick 21)

Trent McDuffie has had a really good rookie campaign, but he was picked on a lot in the final regular season games. In 49 coverage snaps, he allowed six receptions for 60 yards, one touchdown, and a 142.0 passer rating. He did have a pass breakup, but Saturday was undoubtedly brutal for him. I still don’t see much cause for concern as we can’t expect a rookie to be perfect every week.

Trent McDuffie and L’Jarius Sneed are going to be critical if the Chiefs want to win the AFC. They’re likely going to have to beat Buffalo or Cincinnati if they want to go to the Super Bowl, so they need to have solid cornerback play. McDuffie has had flashes of brilliance this season, but he’s been a little shaky at times. He was drafted high for moments like this. Players drafted as high as he was are expected to be stars and he’s demonstrated that he has that in him.