Photo via Yahoo Sports

Steve Spagnuolo on Chiefs’ pass rush: ‘It’s a step away’

The Kansas City Chiefs’ pass rush remains a work in progress, despite showing flashes of disruptive potential. Through five games, the team ranks last in the NFL with a 2.6% sack rate and just four sacks total—though they’ve played one fewer game than other teams.

Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo emphasized the importance of small improvements, noting that the unit is “a step away” from greater efficiency, even if sacks aren’t the sole focus. Against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4, the Chiefs recorded 10 hits on quarterback Kirk Cousins but no sacks, with defensive end George Karlaftis leading the charge, including a pressure that set up an interception by rookie safety Xavier Nwankpa.

Spagnuolo praised Karlaftis’ relentless approach, a trait that has defined his play since college, as a key to future success.

Looking ahead, the Chiefs face the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 6, a matchup where their pass rush could turn the tide. The Chargers’ quarterback has already been sacked 17 times in five games, offering a prime opportunity for Kansas City to build on recent progress.

Spagnuolo’s philosophy centers on limiting points allowed—Kansas City ranks seventh in the league at 19.2 per game—rather than fixating on sack totals. If the defense can continue disrupting opponents while maintaining their strong points-per-game average, the Chiefs will be satisfied with their overall impact, even if the sack column remains modest.

Up nextNFL· 31m ago

Chargers place FB Alec Ingold on IR