Chiefs' defense check-in shows more reasons for optimism than concern

If there's a will, there's a way, and the Kansas City Chiefs' defense has shown a lot of will through the first month. With a 4-0 start, the Chiefs have shown resilience and have shown that they are indeed back on top in the AFC and NFL standings.

With that said, it's a good time to look into how the Chiefs' defense has fared with the quarter-season mark now in the rearview mirror.

Interior D-Line

There have been some concerns about the interior defensive line, including Chris Jones. Currently, among other eligible NFL IDLs, Jones has 7 solo tackles (34th), 3 assisted tackles (40th), 11 pressures (14th), and no sacks. There has been a level of concern here from fans, especially with the high price tag Jones brings (total cap hit of $44.85 million for 2026).

Along with this, Khyiris Tonga has been a unique addition, showing some unique value on offense along with having some success in the run game on defense:

Overall, while the monetary-to-production value could be better, the Chiefs' interior defensive line could be a lot worse. Even rookie Peter Woods has shown flashes as well; it will just be something to watch as the season goes along.

Edge Rushers

With George Karlaftis leading the charge, the edge rushers have shown some good strides through these first 4 games. Yes, the Chiefs have not had a sack in their past few games; however, they are getting to the quarterback and forcing errant throws. Just this past week, Karlaftis had 11 pressures, the most in Week 4:

Along with this, rookie R Mason Thomas has shown solid strides as well. Whether he is in a 5- or 9-technique, he is able to get to the QB and cause havoc. I can see him getting some more reps on defense as the season goes on.

Linebackers

Overall, this core has been solid, with Nick Bolton leading the charge. Bolton is T-6th in the league in total tackles (37), according to ESPN. Additionally, Drue Tranquill ranks T-8th in the league in TFLs with 5, along with players such as Khalil Mack and Zach Sieler.

Jeffrey Bassa has even shown strides, with a key forced fumble this past Sunday:

There is a lot to like about this linebacking corps, and I think we will see more positives as the season goes along.

Cornerbacks

Mansoor Delane has been one of the most exciting rookie defenders to watch this season. Along with an interception in the first game of his career, he also had some strong showings in run defense, with one of the best TFLs of the season against Raiders RB Ashton Jeanty. Currently, he has 20 total tackles, 3 pass deflections, and an interception.

Nohl Williams has been solid as well, ranking 11th among eligible CBs in passer rating allowed (53.5), 6th in PBUs (3), and 1st in sacks (1). On the other hand, L'Jarius Sneed has been a question mark. He currently has 28 receptions allowed (101st), a 110 passer rating allowed (73rd), and 1 pass breakup (43rd), according to Pro Football Focus. If this play continues, it will be interesting to see what Spagnuolo does.

Safeties

Probably the position group with the most question marks so far is the safeties. Starting with the good, Chamarri Conner had a good showing in his first game of the season, tallying 6 total tackles and 1 PBU while allowing 1 catch for 2 yards.

However, Alohi Gilman, a recent signing this past offseason, has had some struggles to start the season. According to PFF, among eligible safeties, he's ranked 62nd in solo tackles (10), 60th in passer rating allowed (117.5), and 50th in receptions allowed (6). He will be a starter for the foreseeable future, and there is always hope that his play improves as the season chugs along.

Overall

The Chiefs' defense has been performing well so far. They are ranked T-2nd in turnovers (5) and 5th in rushing yards allowed per game (92.8). While there have been some question marks with some players, there have been strong starts as well, from rookies to veterans alike.

For me, there is not too much cause for concern. Do I wish we had more sacks? Yes, and I'm sure the Chiefs' defensive line and coaching staff would, too. However, the Chiefs are still undefeated, and there is more good than bad on that defense.

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