The grind of an NFL season is a brutal test of depth. It’s a long, punishing marathon where a team’s championship hopes can pivot on the next man up. An 0-2 start has already thrown the Kansas City Chiefs into early adversity. Now suddenly, all eyes are turning toward a fresh face on the defensive line. And this rookie might just be called upon to help steady the ship.
That next man appears to be third-round pick Ashton Gillotte. With veteran defensive end Mike Danna sidelined with a quad injury, the Chiefs' defense faces a significant reshuffle. Head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Danna will not practice, thrusting the 22-year-old Gillotte into the spotlight for a potential first career start against the New York Giants.
Chiefs beat writer Matt Derrick confirmed, "DE Ashton Gillotte opens the second half in place of Mike Danna with the starters on the Chiefs' defense."
Chiefs DE Ashton Gillotte Could Start vs. Giants in Week 3
The Chiefs envisioned Gillotte learning behind established players; however, his snap count skyrocketed from just 9 in Week 1 to 28 in Week 2 after Danna went down. The coaching staff has taken notice of his immediate impact, rewarding him accordingly.
Reid stated when asked about the rookies, "I would tell you I thought they (Ashton Gillotte and Nohl Willams) did a solid job in there. I liked the effort; I liked them hustling."
The situation isn't simple, though, as Gillotte isn’t the only option. Veteran Charles Omenihu, a Super Bowl champion with the team, is also in the mix for those crucial starting reps. This creates a fascinating competition between experienced savvy and youthful energy. Who will defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo trust more when the lights come on Sunday?
A Trial by Fire for Ashton Gillotte
The decision carries weight. Omenihu brings a known quantity to the field. He’s a proven pass rusher who understands the complexities of Spagnuolo’s system. However, through two games, he has yet to record a sack. Meanwhile, Gillotte brings a spark. He recorded a tackle for loss against the Philadelphia Eagles and has shown a relentless motor that energizes the defensive front.
This is more than just a personnel choice; it’s a philosophical one. Do the Chiefs play it safe with a known veteran, or do they unleash the hungry rookie? Gillotte’s rapid development could be a silver lining to Danna’s absence. His performance against a struggling Giants offensive line could be the catalyst he needs to carve out a permanent role.
Kansas City hasn’t started 0-3 since 2011. Patrick Mahomes is cooking with spare ribs right now; the defense has to bring the rub. If Gillotte answers the bell, October trade talks quiet down, and general manager Brett Veach keeps his draft picks. If not, the front office may need to turn to the trade market before Halloween.