Anonymous NFL executive's opinion of Chiefs DE George Karlaftis illustrates exactly why he's the perfect fit for Kansas City

Kansas City Chiefs DE George Karlaftis didn't make ESPN's list of the top-10 edge rushers in the NFL heading into the 2025 NFL season, and that's OK. 

ESPN analytics already recognized Karlaftis as underrated this offseason, so naturally, this fits. As a starter in K.C., Karlaftis is extremely valuable to the team, and he knows and cherishes that. But his value to the league as a whole isn't yet on the level of Myles Garrett, T.J. Watt, Maxx Crosby, and other AFC edge rushers who grace this list. Karlaftis, however, is one of the lucky few who fell outside the top 10 to receive at least one vote. He also received an honorable mention from a group of anonymous NFL decision-makers. 

One anonymous NFL executive gave a quote on Karlaftis that illustrates exactly why he's the perfect fit for Steve Spagnuolo's defense with the Chiefs. 

Chiefs DE George Karlaftis remains both appreciated and underrated, but also perfect for Kansas City

Karlaftis doesn't have the sack numbers that some of the league's top pass-rushers have, but his film certainly passes the eye test. He also gives the Chiefs what Steve Spagnuolo wants on the defensive line, which all starts with a strong presence in the run game. In Kansas City, the players say they earn the right to rush the passer after they stop the run. 

"Quick off the ball, has very good hand usage and mixes moves very well," an anonymous NFC executive told ESPN. "He's always destructive in the run game." 

Often, people try to categorize Karlaftis' game into a particular bucket. This quote illustrates that he's got a lot more going for him than simply playing with effort. Chiefs DE Charles Omenihu commented on this during the playoffs just last season. 

"They try to box George in as a motor guy, high effort guy, but he's a skilled rusher," Omenihu said ahead of the AFC title game. "He knows what he does well and beats guys with it, and he showed up in the playoffs when it matters the most. I just tell George, join the party and strip the ball, you know what I'm saying? But nah, George is a great player. He can rush, he can play the run. Complete guy. Can drop [into coverage]. So, he's done everything that this organization has asked, and has been consistent since he's gotten here."

Karlaftis' stats dipped slightly from 2023 to 2024, going from 47 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and 83 pressures to 35 tackles, eight sacks, and 76 pressures. Entering the 2025 NFL season, he's approaching a two-year period that will determine his future in Kansas City. The Chiefs picked up his fifth-year option, but earning an extension is next up for Karlaftis.