Overview

• The four-year extension carries $62 million in guarantees and an average annual value of $23.25 million, keeping Karlaftis under contract through the 2030 season.
• Karlaftis, a 2022 first-round pick, has amassed 24.5 sacks in three seasons and led the Chiefs with eight sacks and 28 quarterback hits last year.
• The deal’s structure holds his salary-cap hit steady through 2026 before its full terms take effect in 2027.
• This signing follows Pro Bowl guard Trey Smith’s four-year, $94 million pact and mirrors earlier extensions for Chris Jones, underscoring the franchise’s homegrown retention strategy.
• With Karlaftis locked in, general manager Brett Veach and coach Andy Reid are expected to turn their attention to negotiating a long-term deal for cornerback Trent McDuffie.