Kansas City Chiefs: Pass Rush Not Getting Better

Frank Zombo

The Kansas City Chiefs brought in former Packers linebacker Frank Zombo in 2013 to serve as veteran depth.  He performed that job well and even became a Special Teams captain for the Chiefs.  This year, Zombo is getting extended playing time as both Justin Houston and Tamba Hali were not ready to start the season.

Chiefs fans have been getting frustrated with Frank Zombo because he doesn’t offer much of a pass rush.  I understand that frustration, but it is misplaced.  Frank Zombo isn’t out there to rush the passer.  He is on the field to play contain and hold the edge against the opposing run game.  Zombo also drops into coverage to defend short area passes.  He does these things well.

What Zombo does not do well is get after the passer.  Unfortunately, that just isn’t a part of his game.  So while the Chiefs need him out there for the other things he offers, that simply does not help this particular situation.  The Chiefs need to get a pass rush, but it won’t come from Frank Zombo.