George Karlaftis

Career StatsC+

Year	Team	GP	Sacks	Tkl	TFL
Career		65	30.5	163	19.5
2025		16	6.0	48	6.5
2024		16	8.0	35	6.5
2023		16

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Chiefs handed George Karlaftis a significant overpay with this four-year, $88M extension that earns a C+ CVI, as Kansas City essentially paid elite pass rusher money for solid starter production. At $22M per year, Karlaftis is now compensated in the same stratosphere as proven difference-makers, but his on-field impact falls well short of that elite tier despite being a reliable contributor along their defensive front. The 24-year-old does offer some upside given his age and the Chiefs' track record of developing defensive talent, but this deal represents a considerable bet on potential rather than established dominance. With only $32M guaranteed out of the total package, Kansas City built in some protection against regression, though they're still committing premium resources to a player whose current performance doesn't justify top-tier edge rusher compensation. This contract reflects the Chiefs' championship window priorities and their willingness to overpay for continuity, but it's the type of deal that could handcuff their salary cap flexibility if Karlaftis doesn't take a significant leap forward.

Performance Analysis

George Karlaftis earns a C+ grade as a dependable edge rusher who has been a consistent presence on Kansas City's dominant defensive line. His 30.5 career sacks across 65 games is impressive production that averages out to nearly half a sack per game, and his 163 tackles and 17 passes defended show a well-rounded defender. Karlaftis has been a model of consistency with 16 games played in each of his last three seasons, giving the Chiefs exactly the kind of reliable edge presence they need alongside their more flashy playmakers. The 19.5 tackles for loss demonstrate an ability to disrupt in the backfield beyond just getting sacks. Karlaftis may never be the most electrifying pass rusher in the league, but he is the kind of steady, productive edge defender that championship-caliber teams are built around.

Current Sentiment

The media and public perception surrounding George Karlaftis reflects an "A" grade sentiment, positioning him as a foundational piece of Kansas City's defensive future. His recent four-year extension worth $22 million AAV demonstrates both organizational confidence and market validation of his consistent production, with 30.5 career sacks over four seasons establishing him as a solid starter in the league's most demanding spotlight. Coverage consistently frames Karlaftis as the standout success from Kansas City's largely disappointing 2022 draft class, emphasizing his reliability in crucial moments against elite quarterbacks like C.J. Stroud and Josh Allen. While media narratives acknowledge he hasn't reached Pro Bowl or elite recognition levels, the consensus presents him as a dependable, franchise-caliber pass rusher who has earned his place in the Chiefs' championship window. His ability to contribute meaningfully to back-to-back Super Bowl runs has solidified his reputation as a player the organization can build around, representing solid value in today's inflated defensive market.