After having trouble getting after the quarterback for much of 2021, the Kansas City Chiefs saw one of their best pass rushers, midseason acquisition Melvin Ingram, go for the Dolphins this summer. ESPN and NFL Media both reported on Thursday that the team had signed former Pro Bowl starter Carlos Dunlap to a one-year contract, giving them a fresh experience at the position as training camp got began.
As reported by Ian Rapoport, the 33-year-old Dunlap, who spent most of the previous two seasons with the Seahawks, is set to make up to $8 million on the contract. Since Seattle released him in March, the veteran Bengals star has been looking for a new team.
After ten years with the Bengals, Seattle signed Dunlap for the last two seasons. Despite entering his mid-30s, Dunlap has continued to be an effective defensive end, one who can still sack the quarterback and cause havoc for much younger offensive linemen thanks to his savvy.
Carlos Dunlap to play 2022-23 season for Chiefs
As a member of the Seattle Seahawks in 2021, Dunlap had 8.5 sacks. Before being traded to Seattle in the middle of the 2020 season, the veteran played his first 11 seasons with Cincinnati, where he recorded 82.5 sacks. The 33-year-old proved he still has what it takes to pressure the quarterback and make nice tackles last season.
The acquisition of Dunlap strengthens a unit that has been struggling as a whole for the squad. With his experience and leadership, the team’s young defensive line will benefit greatly from his presence.
