The Kansas City Chiefs’ defense has been lights-out over the past three weeks.

One of the biggest concerns for the unit entering the season was whether or not star defensive tackle Chris Jones would get enough help so he could face less double and triple-teams from opposing offensive lines.

Throughout the first four games of 2025, Jones has gotten that help from fourth-year defensive end George Karlaftis. During Sunday’s win over the Baltimore Ravens, Karlaftis recorded two tackles (one for loss), one sack, and four quarterback hits.

Chiefs DE George Karlaftis on pace for a career year

Karlaftis has racked up 18 total tackles (six for loss), three sacks, 10 quarterback hits, and one pass defensed so far this season. He also has 15 QB pressures, which is tied for the second most among all edge rushers in the NFL. While speaking to the media on Monday, coach Andy Reid emphasized the importance of what Karlaftis brings to Kansas City’s defense.

“George gives a ton of snaps,” Reid said. “He plays almost the whole game every week, and very seldom comes out. Again, he brings that aggressive heartbeat, and even though he might not get home, he’s always around. He just keeps getting better. He’s got a little bit of that DieHard battery deal in him. He keeps on going.”

Being a three-down player and rarely ever coming off the field for a breather doesn’t prevent Karlaftis from playing with a high motor. That is part of the reason why general manager Brett Veach gave him a four-year, $93 million contract extension during the offseason.

Karlaftis leads the team in sacks, QB hits and pressures, and tackles for loss. He has helped open things up for Jones over the last two games, who has recorded a sack and four QB hits during that span. Karlaftis and Jones are becoming a dynamic duo, and more help could be on the way as rookie defensive linemen Omarr Norman-Lott and Ashton Gillotte continue to develop.