The Chiefs are hoping for an improved pass rush this season, and defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah is looking to play a part in that role.
After missing all of last season with a hamstring injury, Anudike-Uzomah is finally healthy and turning heads at training camp in St. Joseph, Mo.
“I feel good,” Anudike-Uzomah said. “I’m rolling this camp, so I’m happy to work.”
The Chiefs drafted the former Kansas State star with the final pick in the first round in 2023 and were hoping he could eventually be a starter. That hasn’t transpired yet as George Karlaftis will start at one defense end spot, and second-year player Ashton Gillotte is also a strong candidate to start on the side. But a recent hamstring injury has kept him out of practice, opening the door for more reps from rookie R Mason Thomas and Anudike-Uzomah.
Before missing all of last season, Anudike-Uzomah played in 34 games and made three starts to go with three sacks. His best play, however, might be when he tackled 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey in the backfield to help the team win Super Bowl LVIII.
Anudike-Uzomah was having a strong camp last year but injured his hamstring before the preseason finale and soon went on injured reserve.
“It was tough, but at the end of the day work will get you to anywhere you want,” Anudike-Uzomah said. “So I just have to have that mindset going through the offseason seeing all my teammates play was kind of hard. But me just focusing on getting better, that was my motivation.”
Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said Anudike-Uzomah is now showing why the Chiefs drafted him in the first round in 2023.
“I think he’s had a really good camp,” Spagnuolo said. “He’s fought these injuries all the way through. Even when he was playing, I think he was hampered by them. But he’s been in the system now for the fourth year so he should know it. And I think he’s had some pretty effective, productive plays. I’m hoping that continues. And with Ashton, we need him out there, too. But it’s a blessing in disguise for Felix as he gets more reps.”
