Omarr Norman-Lott Archives - Sports Al Dente

Chiefs Turn to Rookies Norman-Lott and Gillotte to Revive Pass Rush After Sack Decline

Chiefs Add Norman-Lott and Gillotte to Rebuild Interior and Edge Pass Rush

To address their defensive needs, the Chiefs drafted defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott in the second round and defensive end Ashton Gillotte in the third. The team believes these two rookies can play pivotal roles in restoring their pass-rushing dominance.

According to Chiefs personnel executive Mike Bradway, Norman-Lott brings valuable inside-rush skills while Gillotte offers versatility on the edge. Both players had productive college careers, with Norman-Lott recording 13.5 sacks across stints at Arizona State and Tennessee, and Gillotte amassing 26.5 sacks over four years at Louisville.

Chiefs Turn to Rookies Norman-Lott and Gillotte to Revive Pass Rush After Sack Decline

Norman-Lott is expected to compete for significant playing time next to Chris Jones, especially with the interior pass-rush spot left vacant. Despite veteran competition from run-stoppers like Mike Penell and Jerry Tillery, Norman-Lott’s ability to win one-on-one pass rushes stands out.

Chiefs scouting director Ryne Nutt compared Norman-Lott’s playing style to Wharton’s, emphasizing his disruptive ability and high productivity. The coaching staff values his explosive get-off and believes he can become a consistent threat in the middle of the defensive line.

Karlaftis Mentors Gillotte as Chiefs Invest in Youthful Defensive Pass-Rushing Talent

Gillotte enters the Chiefs’ system with a strong mentor in George Karlaftis, whom he already knew through shared coaching connections. Their relationship, which began through film study and feedback sessions, has carried over to the NFL, where Karlaftis is now helping Gillotte transition both on and off the field.

The Chiefs see Gillotte as a player in the Karlaftis mold—high energy, relentless effort, and disruptive presence—even if his sack numbers dipped to 4.5 in his final college season. His impressive pro day performance, where he showed linebacker-like athleticism, further solidified his draft appeal.

The Chiefs’ decision to go with young, high-upside pass rushers instead of veterans signals a long-term investment in defensive development. If Norman-Lott and Gillotte can deliver early impact, Kansas City could once again rank among the NFL’s top teams in sacks.

Their integration into the defense will be critical as the team aims to complement their strong offense with a revitalized front seven. With the mentorship of established players like Jones and Karlaftis, both rookies are well-positioned to contribute and grow into foundational defensive pieces for the Chiefs.

Hidden Gems of the 2025 NFL Draft Who Could Become Breakout NFL Stars

The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to showcase a wealth of talent, and while many players grab the spotlight, there are several underrated prospects who could have a significant impact in the league. These players might not have the same fanfare as some of the bigger names, but their unique skill sets and untapped potential could lead to breakout performances. From dual-threat quarterbacks to explosive defensive players, let’s explore the hidden gems of the 2025 draft.

Jalen Milroe has emerged as one of the most exciting and underrated quarterbacks in the draft. His remarkable athleticism, including a 4.37-second 40-yard dash, makes him a dynamic dual-threat player, much like Justin Fields or Lamar Jackson. Milroe’s time at Alabama, where he led the team to an SEC Championship and tallied over 3,500 total yards in 2024, highlights his ability to perform under pressure.

Though his throwing mechanics need refinement, his athleticism and big-game performances have caught the attention of NFL teams, positioning him as a potential second to third-round pick with a high ceiling.

Corey Kiner is a running back who could turn heads despite flying under the radar. After a successful stint at LSU, Kiner transferred to Cincinnati, where he ran for over 1,000 yards in 2023. His excellent vision, quick cuts, and exceptional ball security—having fumbled just once—make him a reliable asset for any backfield.

While some concerns about his size and speed persist, Kiner’s ability to force missed tackles and his solid burst make him a perfect fit as a potential RB2 or RB3. He is projected as a late-round pick or undrafted free agent, but his consistency could make him a key contributor in the NFL.

Logan Brown’s Versatility and Aggressive Play Make Him a Late-Round Offensive Line Gem

Logan Brown’s journey from a highly touted recruit at Michigan to a draft prospect reflects both promise and perseverance. Despite injury setbacks during his college career, Brown’s physical attributes, including a 6’6 1/2″, 311-pound frame, make him an intriguing offensive line prospect.

Known for his aggressive run-blocking skills, he has the versatility to play both tackle and guard, offering great potential for teams seeking depth and flexibility. Though his pass protection needs refinement, Brown’s raw talent and determination make him an appealing option in the later rounds of the draft.

Bradyn Swinson is an edge rusher whose agility and pass-rushing skills make him a player to watch. Standing at 6’4″ with an 81¼” wingspan, Swinson combines impressive physical traits with quickness, as evidenced by his fast 3-cone drill and shuttle times.

During his time at LSU, Swinson accumulated 13.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks, earning Second-Team All-SEC honors. Although he needs to improve against the run, Swinson’s pass-rushing ability, active hands, and competitive mindset could make him a game-changing asset in a 3-4 defense, especially as a situational pass rusher.

Omarr Norman-Lott’s Explosive Pass-Rush Potential Could Make Him a Day 2 Draft Steal

Omarr Norman-Lott is a defensive tackle whose explosive pass-rush ability and relentless motor make him a high-potential prospect. After transferring from Arizona State to Tennessee, Norman-Lott’s natural power and technique in pressuring the quarterback stood out, though his run defense remains inconsistent.

With further development and improved stamina, Norman-Lott has the tools to become a disruptive force on passing downs. Projected as a Day 2 pick, his ability to impact the game as a pass-rusher could make him a valuable starter in the NFL, given the right fit and coaching.

While the spotlight typically shines on high-round picks, there are numerous late-round sleepers in the 2025 NFL Draft who could surprise. Players like Ashton Jeanty, who excels at forcing missed tackles, and Brady Cook, whose accuracy and arm mechanics could make him a sleeper quarterback, stand out as potential steals.

Defensive tackle C.J. West, with his powerful build, and Barrett Carter, a standout in pass coverage, are other players who could make a significant impact. With unique skill sets and determination, these players have the potential to defy expectations and become key contributors in the NFL.