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The Kansas City Chiefs 2022 rookie class played a significant role in the team’s championship run. Contributions from both sides of the ball, with rookies seeing impactful minutes throughout the postseason and making game-winning plays.
One of the many first-year standouts was George Karlaftis, who proved quickly he could be a force on the defensive line. He played spot moments primarily as a reserve but was a critical component of the Chiefs’ pass rush toward the end of the regular season. After the Chiefs parted ways with veteran Frank Clark at the start of the offseason, it immediately opened up more potential opportunities for Karlaftis in 2023.
Karlaftis discussed the impact of Clark with reporters on Tuesday during their one season together, as the veteran has since signed with the Denver Broncos.
“I love Frank,” said Karlaftis. “He meant the world to me. Great person; you got to do what you got to do. You know, it’s his business, but I love him. And he just taught me so much that I’ll take not only with me for this as a professional football player but in life too.”
Karlaftis has also been in touch with Chiefs legend Tamba Hali to improve his technique heading into the new year.
“I knew there were some Chiefs players and guys that had been a part of the organization that lives in town,” said Karlaftis. “I reached out to him (Tamba Hali) to get some knowledge, and it turned out to be a great mentorship.”
Karlaftis finished the 2022 season with 33 tackles, six sacks, and two fumble recoveries. He showed that he could do more damage with more time on the field and consistent opportunity.
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