The Kansas City Chiefs are known for their formidable pass rush around the NFL, having accumulated 54 sacks as a team before the final week of the regular season. Nevertheless, the quest for effective pass rushers remains ongoing, and according to Bleacher Report’s NFL staff, the Chiefs could be eyeing New York Jets defensive lineman Carl Lawson this offseason.
Bleacher Report suggests that Lawson could be an cheap but effective option in free agency, given his limited playing time with the Jets this season, contributing just five tackles in six games.
Despite rumors swirling about a potential trade at the deadline in late October, the Jets opted to retain Lawson.
What Kansas City Chiefs Fans Should Know About Carl Lawson
Lawson’s stint with the Jets has been marred by setbacks. Signing a three-year, $45 million deal in 2021, he suffered a torn Achilles in training camp, sidelining him for his first year with the club. Returning to the field last season, Lawson had a productive campaign with 33 tackles, seven sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in all 17 games. However, he has been notably absent from the field in 2023.
The 28-year-old, an Auburn alum, was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. After a promising rookie year, injuries limited his 2018 season to seven games.
In 2019 and 2020, Lawson made a significant impact with the Bengals, recording 23 tackles and five sacks in the former season and 36 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles in the latter.
While not considered an elite pass rusher, Lawson could find a fitting role for the Kansas City Chiefs, particularly if the Chiefs manage to re-sign star defensive lineman Chris Jones, who is also set to become a free agent. Joining forces with players like Jones, George Karlaftis III, and Michael Danna, Lawson has the potential to thrive, provided he maintains good health.
With a 10-6 record and securing their eighth consecutive AFC West division title, the Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up to conclude the regular season against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. After that, they will look to make another deep playoff run, as they have done very regularly in recent years.