Now that OTAs and mandatory minicamp are both over for the Kansas CIty Chiefs, it’s a worthy time to take a look back at the rookie class to measure how they’ve performed to this point.
Some guys have gone through ups and downs, like third-round cornerback Nohl Williams, while others have fit right in from the beginning. Among the latter group is fourth-round receiver Jalen Royals out of Utah State, who quickly earned his quarterbacks’ collective trust and looks like another mid-round steal for general manager Brett Veach.
However, there are some players who have flown under the radar, being outshined by guys who were drafted after them. Through no fault of his own, Louisville third-round defensive end Ashton Gillotte fits that bill.
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Chiefs Rookie DE Ashton Gillotte Overshadowed by Fellow Rookies Thus Far
There’s been considerable hype about offensive tackle Josh Simmons, who is still rehabbing from a patellar tendon injury but is expected to be ready by training camp. Second-round defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott figures to contribute immediately on the interior of the line, then Williams, Royals, and even seventh-round running back Brashard Smith have made splash plays.
Royals, in particular, has overshadowed Gillotte, who was selected with the draft pick received in the L’Jarius Sneed trade. Gillotte has a great relationship with his “mentor,” George Karlaftis, but the path to playing time for the No. 66 selection is complicated.
Karlaftis, Charles Omenihu, Mike Danna, and Felix Anudike-Uzomah are all firmly ahead of him in the EDGE rotation. Gillotte piled up a remarkable 26.5 sacks during his four years at Louisville, though it’ll take time for him to adjust to the NFL game. Fans shouldn’t expect to see him make an impact until his sophomore season, though that doesn’t mean the pick was a mistake.
On the other hand, Royals should be in the wideout rotation quickly. Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Hollywood Brown are all ahead of him, though the talented rookie is proving why Veach and the organization were so excited to get him.
From a fan’s perspective, the splashy playmaker is always more exciting than the project defender, so it’s natural that Gillotte hasn’t received much buzz. As he gets more used to the scheme, though, expect to hear Gillotte’s name more and more. Should any injuries happen along the defensive line this year, he’ll be in line to earn more shine than he’s received thus far.
