Chiefs DT Tershawn Wharton thriving among NFL’s defensive rookies

When Tershawn “Turk” Wharton made the Kansas City Chiefs’ 53-man roster, it was a surprise to many in the Chiefs Kingdom. It’s not often you see an undrafted rookie out of Division II’s Missouri S&T making the roster of the reigning Super Bowl champions. Many looked for an excuse, like Mike Pennel’s suspension, as a reason for Wharton’s opportunity. Truth be told, through the halfway point of the 2020 NFL season, it turns out that Wharton is a really good football player.

Even with the Chiefs’ interior defensive line at full strength in both Week 7 and Week 8, Wharton earned a massive share of the defensive snaps, with 78 combined snaps between the two games. In each game, he made an impact too, forcing a key fumble against the Denver Broncos. He notched his first career sack against Sam Darnold this week, holding the New York Jets to a field goal.

The 6-3 and 285-pound defensive tackle isn’t just standing out amongst his teammates and fellow rookies in Kansas City, though. Wharton’s performance through the first half of the season has him gaining recognition among defensive rookies in the league. According to PFF, Wharton has the second-highest grade in the NFL among rookie defensive linemen, behind No. 2 overall pick Chase Young.

Among all defensive rookies with over 200 snaps, Wharton has the No. 3 grade. He has the No. 23 grade among all NFL interior defensive lineman with at least 200 snaps. That’s practically unheard of for a rookie undrafted free agent.

What’s even more remarkable is that the Chiefs were able to identify and bring in Wharton during a year when the COVID-19 pandemic impacted how players were evaluated ahead of the draft. It’s a testament to this front office staff and their diligence when it comes to adding competitive depth to this football team.

If the first half of the season has been any indication, we’ll be seeing a lot more of Wharton and noticing his impact during the final stretch of the season.