Chiefs rookie anticipates playing larger role in Super Bowl LVIII

Anudike-Uzomah totaled just 14 tackles, 0.5 sacks and one forced fumble in 2023. But defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is confident that he will prove Kansas City right for drafting him and help fill the void left by Omenihu.

"We feel real confident with Felix," Spagnuolo told reporters. "It wasn't a reflection on what Felix was doing or not doing, but the other guys were playing pretty good. Hopefully, the fact that Felix has played some in games that he'll be able to step in and perform pretty well for us."

Spagnuolo is right in the fact that the team's other three edge-rushers simply outplayed the rookie this season. Omenihu, along with defensive ends George Karlaftis and Mike Danna, combined for 125 tackles, 24 sacks and three forced fumbles.

Anudike-Uzomah must now rise to the challenge, however. And with several experienced players in the locker room, he's confident he'll be able to do just that.

"Obviously this is a huge stage ... but at the end of the day, we're still playing football," Anudike-Uzomah added. "I've been leaning on the vets just to give me some advice about tips and stuff, reminders, just technique-wise to help me play faster."

Anudike-Uzomah won't have to put the team on his back come Sunday. But as long as he plays his role in the Chiefs defense, which allowed the second-fewest total yards per game (289.8) and points per game (17.3), Kansas City could be raising its third Vince Lombardi Trophy in five years.