While there wasn't much interest following his release, the Kansas City Chiefs decided to sign Taco Charlton this offseason. Frank Clark, who is entering his second season with the Chiefs, is prepared to turn Charlton into a ‘legend'.
Clark said of Charlton on Wednesday:
“I feel like a lot of people are doubting Taco … And for the first part of his career, it hasn’t been to the standard that I’m sure he would want it to be. He’s had some great highlights and he’s done some good things in this league, but he has yet to do what I know he wants to do.”
Back in the 2017 NFL Draft, Charlton was the No. 28 pick in the first round for the Dallas Cowboys. In his rookie season in Dallas, Charlton struggled, tallying just three sacks and a forced fumble.
Then, in his sophomore season with the Cowboys, Charlton regressed, contributing only one sack. Given his lack of translating his game to the NFL, Dallas waived the former first-round pick early in the 2019 season.
Following his release, the Miami Dolphins signed the Michigan product in hopes he could provide a boost in the pass-rushing department. Over the course of his lone season in Miami, Charlton flashed potential as he notched five sacks and two forced fumbles.
Despite the improvements he made, the Dolphins released Charlton at the end of April. Even though he's failed to live up to expectations, the Chiefs believe they can help Charlton reach his potential, signing him to a one-year deal. And now, Clark believes he can take Charlton under his wing and make him meet his potential.
Clark continued:
“Like I said, I want to turn him into a legend. First, just show him my work ethic. Show him how we do things with the Chiefs. It’s a certain standard that Coach Reid has us mounted to. There are certain things that you have to be able to live up to here. We’re the champs. We’re defending our ring and there’s going to be some standards that he has to live up to coming into that room.”
Prior to reuniting in Kansas City, Clark and Charlton played together at Michigan in 2013 and 2014. Therefore, the two former Wolverines are aware of what the other is capable of on the field.
During their time in college, Clark and Charlton became close as Clark took on a mentorship role. While fans might have given up on Charlton, Clark envisions him turning into a premier edge rusher with the Chiefs next season.
Follow Us
Subscribe