Chiefs Sign Taylor Stallworth: Initial Reactions
The Chiefs’ have further added to their defensive line depth with their latest signing. They have signed former New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts’ defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth to a one-year deal:
Introducing the newest member of the Chiefs' defensive line…Taylor Stallworth! He recorded 22 pressures last season in 16 games with Indianapolis. Welcome to KC, Taylor! pic.twitter.com/UluEHTfAHK — Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) April 5, 2022
In 16 games (one started) in 2021 as a primary backup, Stallworth racked up 16 total tackles, 13 pressures, 12 QB hits, four tackles for a loss, and three sacks. He stalled opposing offenses from running it up the gut (pun totally intended) and opposing offensive line’s jobs worthwhile when guarding against him. Here are my initial reactions to the breaking news:
Taylor Stallworth: Jarran Reed’s Replacement
As many other Chiefs fans have pointed out, Stallworth is called upon as Jarran Reed’s replacement. Stallworth has shown to be a better pass rusher than Reed last season, having the same number of QB hits in 16 fewer starts (12) and has more sacks than Reed (2.5) in only 332 defensive to Reed’s 713 snaps. That alone shows the pass rush gap they have.
If Stallworth earns starting time, he could significantly change the defensive line, creating more room for Chris Jones and Frank Clark to maul opposing quarterbacks. Stallworth has shown to be a solid run defense presence, clogging up rushing lanes while keeping his legs churning. While the stars always matter, there’s still a motherlode of players that must make an impact for them to win. Stallworth can be the underrated player the Chiefs need to bolster their defense.
Must Needed Add On To Bolster The Pass Rush
Taylor Stallworth is an immediate upgrade to the Chiefs’ pass rush. He has been a monster in pass rush with his lack of playing time, as stated and shown earlier. The fact that he performed better than some starting NFL DTs despite having one start shows that he could plausibly do more with more playing time. Having 12 QB hits is no small feat for a backup DT, especially one who had played in 33% defensive snaps for the Colts in 2021.
What are your thoughts on the Chiefs’ signing Taylor Stallworth? Leave a comment down below to join the discussion.
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