Can the Chiefs' Youth Movement Revitalize Their Pass Rush?
The Kansas City Chiefs have a problem—and it’s not a new one. For the past two seasons, their pass rush has been, frankly, underwhelming. In 2024, they ranked 30th in pressure rate without blitzing, and while they climbed to 17th in 2025, it’s hardly a cause for celebration. What’s more concerning is how this weakness has cost them in critical moments, like the fourth quarter of games against the Chargers, Bills, Broncos, and Cowboys. When the Chiefs needed to close out games, their defense couldn’t generate the pressure required.
Personally, I think this issue isn’t just about numbers—it’s about timing. A pass rush that falters in the final minutes of a game can be the difference between a championship and a missed opportunity. The Chiefs seem to recognize this, as evidenced by their draft strategy. In 2025, they selected defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott and defensive end Ashton Gillotte, both of whom were expected to inject youth and energy into the unit. But did they?
Let’s start with Norman-Lott. On paper, he’s an explosive pass rusher with the ability to disrupt interior linemen. But his rookie season was cut short by an ACL injury, leaving us with more questions than answers. What’s particularly fascinating is his collegiate background—or lack thereof. Norman-Lott played fewer than 1,000 snaps in college, mostly as a rotational player. This raises a deeper question: Can a player with limited experience at both the college and pro levels suddenly become a game-changer?
In my opinion, Norman-Lott’s potential is undeniable, but his role is limited. He’s not a run-stopper, and his lack of size and length make him a situational player at best. If he can’t consistently generate pressure, his value diminishes significantly. Year 2 will be make-or-break for him, and I’ll be watching closely to see if he can justify his spot on the field.
Now, let’s talk about Gillotte. His rookie season showed promise, with 22 pressures in 253 pass-rush snaps. But here’s the catch: nearly 30% of his snaps came in the final three weeks of the season, when the Chiefs were already out of playoff contention. What many people don’t realize is that consistency in high-stakes games is what separates good players from great ones. Gillotte has the tools—a diverse set of moves and enough athleticism to compete—but does he have the upside to become more than a rotational player?
The Chiefs doubled down on their youth movement in the 2026 draft, selecting defensive tackle Peter Woods and edge rusher R Mason Thomas. Woods, in particular, is a player who divides opinions. His balance and agility are impressive, but his pass-rush skills leave much to be desired. At Clemson, he struggled to disengage from blocks, relying too heavily on slipping through rather than using his hands. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be a major red flag in the NFL, where offensive linemen are faster and stronger.
Thomas, on the other hand, is a player I find especially interesting. His college tape is electric—explosive, athletic, and relentless. But his lack of size and length is a concern. In the NFL, he won’t be able to overpower tackles like he did in college. He’ll need to rely on his first-step quickness and technique, which, in my opinion, is a risky bet.
What this really suggests is that the Chiefs are gambling on potential over proven talent. They’re hoping these young players can develop into a unit akin to the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive line, which transformed into one of the NFL’s best through smart drafting and development. But here’s the thing: development isn’t guaranteed. Defensive tackles like Woods can take years to reach their peak, and edge rushers like Thomas need to be elite in specific areas to compensate for their physical limitations.
From my perspective, the Chiefs’ pass rush in 2026 hinges on two factors: the growth of their young players and the continued dominance of veterans like Chris Jones and George Karlaftis. If Norman-Lott, Gillotte, Woods, and Thomas can step up, the Chiefs could have a formidable unit. But if they falter, the team could find itself in the same predicament as the past two seasons.
One thing that immediately stands out is the pressure these young players are under. They’re not just expected to perform—they’re expected to transform a struggling unit. That’s a tall order, especially for rookies and second-year players. What many people don’t realize is that pass rushing is as much about experience as it is about talent. It’s about understanding offensive linemen’s tendencies, mastering technique, and staying healthy.
If you take a step back and think about it, the Chiefs’ strategy is both bold and risky. They’re betting on the future while trying to win in the present. It’s a high-wire act, and whether it pays off remains to be seen. Personally, I think this could be the most intriguing storyline of their 2026 season. Will their youth movement revitalize the pass rush, or will it leave them scrambling for answers once again? Only time will tell.
Conclusion
The Chiefs’ pass rush is at a crossroads. With a mix of unproven talent and seasoned veterans, the team is gambling on potential over experience. While the upside is enormous, the risks are equally significant. In my opinion, this is the year that will define the future of their defense. If these young players can rise to the occasion, the Chiefs could be unstoppable. But if they fall short, it could be another season of what-ifs. Either way, it’s a story worth watching.
