Kansas City Chiefs defensive end George Karlaftis gets set on the line of scrimmage during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Dec. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Peter Aiken)
In 2025 Kansas City Chiefs defensive end George Karlaftis had his fewest sacks (six) since his rookie year and the fewest passes defended (two) of his career.
But during the final week of 2026 organized team activities, Karlaftis’ position coach — defensive line coach Joe Cullen — revealed a major reason for his downturn. Karlaftis broke his right hand and then had surgery during the bye week after Week Nine before returning to play the very next game.
Although Karlaftis, who is a pretty taciturn individual, was seen with a cast or extra padding on his hand, the extent of the injury was not known.
As he heads into the 2026, he’s feeling much better.
