A new face will lead the Kansas City Chiefs defensive line for the first time in three seasons.
After spending the 2021 NFL season as the defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Joe Cullen has joined the Chiefs’ coaching staff hoping to turn around a unit that underperformed last season. Cullen believes the defensive line can make a more significant impact in 2022 and is looking to put his mark on an established group. That starts with converting pressures to sacks and getting everyone on the defensive line to buy into his philosophy.
He shared his thoughts on his new position group and their outlook for the upcoming season after Tuesday’s practice.
“Yeah, I tell you, first of all, it’s really a good group, and they’re really working hard from top to bottom,” Cullen told reporters. “You know, starting with Chris Jones, Frank Clark, they’ve come back in great shape. They’re working through every rep. Frank (Clark) lost some weight; he’s really quick off the snap. Mike Danna is consistent every snap. I really like where the group is going. Our rookie George Karlaftis is doing a great job. He brings a lot of energy. He’s like a sponge out there, just loves football and is powerful. You know you want to take the play off on him and we’re really getting some good push from our interior guys. I like where we’re at right now.”
Both Chris Jones and Frank Clark were selected to the Pro Bowl last season and have maintained their roles as leaders on the line. The motor of rookie George Karlaftis mixed with the offseason improvements of Mike Danna and the addition of veteran Carlos Dunlap has the potential to make this group as potent as ever.
The Chiefs’ defensive line has built a commendable reputation through defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s regime. Cullen’s approach combined with the talent acquired leaves plenty of reason for optimism heading into the new season.
