Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Ashton Gillotte spoke with reporters on Wednesday at mandatory minicamp. He expressed his displeasure with his rookie season ahead of the 2026 campaign.
“It feels good. Obviously, the whole thing of the like your rookie nerves, you’re kind of past that. You’re kind of in the rhythm and kind of really didn’t feel like we had a break from that,” said Gillotte, looking ahead to the 2026 season. “Our break was short, and it was good, and we were back in the building. So, just keep building on what we did last year. I’ve already had some under my belt, so I can just keep moving forward.”
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Gillotte was selected 66th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, tallying 24 pressures, eight quarterback hits, three tackles-for-loss, and 1.5 sacks last season.
“I’m being honest, I didn’t like how I looked on film, but that’s because I’ve always been my worst critic, but I think there’s some things I can learn from,” said Gillotte, “I don’t think I moved like myself or played exactly how I wanted to play, but those are all things I can learn from. It’s a journey. Not everybody’s journey is going to be the same; you’re not always going to click how you want at first. I’m just trying to keep patient, give it up to God, and just let it come to fruition.”
The former Louisville standout was awarded the 2025 Mack Lee Hill Rookie of the Year Award as the Chiefs’ best rookie.
This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs DE Ashton Gillotte expresses displeasure with his rookie season
