Nick Bolton Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Colts vs Chiefs game on Sunday with our National Football League injury report.Nov 4, 2025
Racks up 14 tackles
Bolton recorded 14 tackles (five solo), including one tackle for loss in Sunday's 28-21 loss to the Bills.
ANALYSIS
Bolton saw his snaps dip slightly in Weeks 7 and 8, but he returned to a 100 percent clip in Week 9. He responded by matching his season-high with 14 tackles, although only five were solo. Bolton is having a bounce-back season after a disappointing 2024.
Oct 28, 2025
Fine day vs. Commanders
Bolton recorded six tackles (one solo) during Monday's 28-7 win versus Washington.
ANALYSIS
Bolton has now racked up at least six total tackles in all but one of his games this season, keeping him well on pace for 100-plus on the year. He should have plenty more chances to make tackles in Week 9 against a run-heavy Buffalo offense.
Oct 20, 2025
Quiet day against Raiders
Bolton recorded two tackles (one solo) in Sunday's 31-0 win over the Raiders.
ANALYSIS
Bolton played 95 percent of defensive snaps, but he still had limited opportunity because the Raiders ran only 30 offensive plays. While it was a disappointing performance, he had recorded at least six tackles in all of his games prior to Sunday. Bolton should be in for a bounceback performance in Week 8 against the Commanders.
Oct 14, 2025
Seven tackles in SNF win
Bolton recorded seven tackles (three solo) in Sunday night's win over the Lions.
ANALYSIS
Bolton played all 54 defensive snaps against Detroit and also recorded one QB hit on Jared Goff. The veteran linebacker has piled up 53 tackles (28 solo), including four TFLs, two pass breakups and two QB hits on 99 percent of the Chiefs' defensive snaps through six starts this season.
Oct 7, 2025
Dozen tackles in MNF loss
Bolton recorded 12 tackles (seven solo) and one pass breakup in the Chiefs' loss to the Jaguars on Monday night.
ANALYSIS
Bolton's 12 tackles easily paced the team, and it was his second game this season recording at least a dozen tackles. Through five games, Bolton has racked up 46 tackles (25 solo), including three TFLs, two pass breakups and one QB hit on 99 percent of the Chiefs' defensive snaps.
Sep 29, 2025
Registers six tackles in Week 4 win
Bolton tallied six tackles (three solo) in Sunday's 37-20 victory over Baltimore.
ANALYSIS
Though relatively modest by his standards, Bolton's six stops ranked second on Kansas City. The veteran linebacker also recorded a QB hit. Through four weeks, Bolton has totaled 34 tackles and a defensed pass.
Sep 22, 2025
Makes 14 stops Sunday
Bolton racked up 14 tackles (six solo) and defensed a pass in Sunday's 22-9 Week 3 win over the Giants.
ANALYSIS
Bolton's 14 tackles matched the amount he had recorded in the Chiefs' first two games this season. Of his stops Sunday, two went for a loss. Bolton has 28 tackles through three games as he pursues his fourth triple-digit campaign of his five-year NFL career.
Sep 16, 2025
Six tackles in Super Bowl rematch
Bolton finished Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Eagles with six tackles (three solo).
ANALYSIS
Bolton played all 60 defensive snaps and finished tied with Drue Tranquill for third most tackles on the Chiefs. Bolton has played every single defensive snap in each of the first two games of 2025 after doing so three times in 2024. He's up to 14 tackles on the season, which is third most on the Chiefs behind Chamarri Conner (18) and Jaylen Watson (15).
Sep 5, 2025
Logs eight tackles against Bolts
Bolton collected eight tackles (six solo) during the Chiefs' 27-21 loss to the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
Bolton had a nice start to the 2025 season Friday with eight takedowns, second most on the Chiefs behind Chamarri Conner (10). Bolton has accrued at least 100 total tackles in three of four NFL seasons, and he had just 60 in 2023 after missing nine games due to injury. The 2021 second-rounder is an every-down linebacker and is an integral piece to the Chiefs' defense. Bolton and the Chiefs' defense will have their hands full in Week 2 when they welcome in the Eagles on Sunday, Sept. 14 in a rematch of Super Bowl LIX.
Mar 9, 2025
Inks big deal with Chiefs
Bolton signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the Chiefs on Sunday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton's deal includes $30 million in fully guaranteed salary, indicating that he'll remain a stalwart over the middle of Kansas City's defense moving forward. The 5-foot-11 linebacker, who turns 25 years old Monday, was set to hit free agency after putting up over 100 tackles in all but one of the last four seasons. This includes the 2022 campaign when he finished second in the NFL in tackles with 180. Bolton should have a great chance to record over 100 tackles once again in 2025.
Feb 10, 2025
Prefers to remain in KC
Bolton told reporters that Kansas City "feels like home" when asked about his impending free agency following Sunday night's 40-22 loss to the Eagles in the Super Bowl, Charles Goldman of AtoZSports.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton has started 53 of the 57 regular-season games he's appeared in since entering the league in 2021, tallying a team-leading 458 total tackles during that span. The 24-year-old also played three seasons at Missouri in college, stating that Kansas City has "welcomed [him] with open arms" for the past seven years. Given Bolton's significant role in the Chiefs' defensive success over the last four seasons and his desire to remain with the team, he'll likely ink an extension to stay in Kansas City this summer.
Jan 5, 2025
Active for Week 18
Bolton is active for Sunday's game against Denver.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was initially listed as doubtful since the Chiefs are locked in as the AFC's No. 1 seed. He will suit up for Sunday's game, but it's unlikely that he will see the field. Blake Lynch will likely see most of the snaps at middle linebacker for the regular-season finale.
Jan 3, 2025
Doubtful for Week 18
Bolton (coach's decision) is listed as doubtful ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Broncos.
ANALYSIS
With the Chiefs already securing the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs, Bolton is likely to rest in Sunday's divisional matchup. He appeared all 16 of Kansas City's regular-season games before Week 18, recording 106 total tackles, including 3.0 sacks, six passes defended and one forced fumble. Although Bolton is not expected to play in Week 18, he'll remain one of the Chiefs' defensive leaders in the NFL playoffs.
Dec 17, 2024
Dominant in win
Bolton logged five tackles (three solo), with 0.5 sacks, a pass deflection and an interception during Kansas City's win over the Browns on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Bolton had an all-around dominant outing versus Cleveland as not only did he lead the team in tackles, but he also managed to record his first interception of the season. The 24-year-old will look to keep up his production during the Chiefs' upcoming Week 16 matchup versus the Texans.
Dec 10, 2024
Records sack in win
Bolton finished with five solo tackles, including 1.0 sacks, in Sunday's 19-17 win over the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
The middle linebacker also played on more than 90 percent of the defensive snaps for the 12th time in 13 games this season. Bolton has 89 tackles (63 solo), including 2.5 sacks, three pass breakups and a fumble recovery in 2024.
Nov 29, 2024
Leads team with 11 stops Friday
Bolton tallied 11 tackles (10 solo) in in Friday's 19-17 victory versus the Raiders.
ANALYSIS
Bolton reached double-digit stops for the second time this year and matched his season-high total, which he first established in Week 5 against New Orleans. The star linebacker briefly left the game with a possible injury at the end of the first quarter but missed only a few plays. Bolton also recovered a fumble on a botched snap with 15 seconds remaining in the contest, ending Las Vegas' comeback bid.
Nov 11, 2024
Logs sack in Week 10
Bolton recorded six total tackles (four solo), including 1.0 sacks, in Sunday's 16-14 win over the Chiefs.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was one of six Chiefs to bring down Bo Nix in Sunday's win, recording his first sack of the season. The fourth-year pro is the Chiefs' leading tackler, having accumulated 62 total tackles, including 1.0 sacks, and three passes defended through the team's first nine games. He's expected to remain a viable IDP option as the Chiefs travel to Buffalo in Week 11.
Oct 29, 2024
Team-high nine tackles vs. Raiders
Bolton logged nine tackles (seven solo) during Sunday's 27-20 win over the Raiders.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was the Chiefs' leading tackler Sunday, and he has logged eight tackles or more in six of seven regular-season games this year. On the year, Bolton has logged 53 tackles (37 solo) and three pass breakups.
Oct 22, 2024
Active in win
Bolton finished with six tackles (five solo), including a tackle for a loss, and a pass defensed in Sunday's 28-18 win over the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
The starting middle linebacker also played on 93 percent of the defensive snaps. Bolton has 44 tackles (30 solo) and three passes defensed in 2024.
Oct 8, 2024
Leads Chiefs with 11 tackles
Bolton logged 11 tackles (six solo) in Monday's 26-13 win over the Saints.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was the leading tackler for the Chiefs on Monday, with eight of his tackles coming in the second half. Bolton is up to 38 tackles (25 solo) and two passes defended through the first five games of the regular season. Bolton and the Chiefs will have their work cut out of them after the bye when they face the 49ers on Oct. 20.
Sep 24, 2024
Logs eight tackles vs. Atlanta
Bolton tallied eight tackles (seven solo) in Sunday's 22-17 win over the Falcons.
ANALYSIS
Bolton played a season-low 46 defensive snaps in Sunday's win, but he made his presence felt, especially on his game-sealing tackle on running back Bijan Robinson late in the fourth quarter. Bolton tied with Bryan Cook for second-most tackles on the Chiefs on Sunday behind Chamarri Conner (10). Bolton is up to 22 total tackles on the season, which is tied for most on Kansas City with Conner through three games.
Sep 17, 2024
Registers seven tackles vs. Bengals
Bolton logged seven tackles (five solo) and one pass defended in Sunday's 26-25 victory over Cincinnati.
ANALYSIS
Bolton has registered seven tackles in back-to-back weeks, and he tied Drue Tranquill and Justin Reid for most tackles on the Chiefs on Sunday. Bolton is on pace to finish the regular season with 119 tackles, which would be the third time in his career that he has tallied at least 100 tackles in a season. Bolton and the Chiefs will travel to Atlanta to take on Kirk Cousins and the Falcons in Week 3.
Sep 6, 2024
Seven tackles Week 1
Bolton had seven tackles (three solo) and one pass defensed in Thursday's 27-20 win over the Ravens.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was limited to eight regular-season appearances by injuries in 2023, but he's among the NFL's best linebackers when healthy, as evidenced by his 180-tackle campaign in 2022. He typically isn't much of a factor in coverage, having posted exactly three passes defensed in each of the previous three regular seasons.
Aug 12, 2024
Returns to practice
Bolton (elbow) returned to practice Monday, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton injured his elbow during practice last month but has now fully recovered. Now healthy, the 24-year-old will likely serve as the Chiefs' top inside linebacker.
Jul 31, 2024
Suffers elbow injury
Bolton left Wednesday's practice early with an elbow issue, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The severity of Bolton's injury is currently unknown, but expect Kansas City to be cautious with the 24-year-old's recovery, as he's such an integral part of the team's defensive success. Once Bolton moves past this elbow issue, he'll likely remain the Chiefs' top inside linebacker.
Jan 7, 2024
Active for Week 18
Bolton (wrist/abdomen) is active for Sunday's game against the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
Bolton practiced in full all week long, but with the Chiefs locked into the third seed in the AFC, he could see limited playing time or sit in pads on the sideline for the team's regular-season finale. Over his last four games, Bolton has 32 tackles (23 solo).
Jan 5, 2024
May not suit up Week 18
Bolton (wrist/abdomen) is tagged as questionable for Sunday's contest versus the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
Bolton doesn't seem to be dealing with any serious health issues, as he was a full participant in all three practice sessions during Week 18 prep. However, the Chiefs are expected to rest multiple starters Sunday with the team locked into the No. 3 playoff seed in the AFC, and Bolton could be among them. If the linebacker doesn't suit up, Leo Chenal could start in his place.
Jan 1, 2024
Season-high tackles in win
Bolton finished Sunday's 25-17 win over the Bengals with 13 tackles (nine solo).
ANALYSIS
Bolton reached double-digit tackles for the first time this season and played 60-plus defensive snaps for the third time. He's missed eight games this season, but has played in the last four games and accumulated 32 tackles (23 solo) over that span.
Dec 27, 2023
Six tackles in loss
Bolton recorded six tackles (five solo) in Monday's 20-14 loss to the Raiders.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was battling an illness ahead of the contest, but he was able to remain productive in the loss. He has now compiled 19 tackles and a pass deflection over three games since returning from the wrist injury that sidelined him for six weeks.
Dec 22, 2023
Returns to practice Friday
Bolton (illness) was a full participant in Friday's practice.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was given the day off Thursday due to an illness as well as lingering issues to his wrist and abdomen, but he returned to Friday's practice without limitations. He's accumulated 13 tackles (nine solo) over his last two games.
Dec 21, 2023
Needs day off
Bolton (illness) is not practicing Thursday, according to head coach Andy Reid, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton has dealt with numerous injuries this season, most recently a wrist and abdominal issue, but now the Chiefs' starting middle linebacker is under the weather, which will keep him off the field Thursday. With the team not playing until Monday against the Raiders, the Missouri product will have the benefit of an extra day to get right and suit up for the matchup.
Dec 15, 2023
Good for Week 15
Bolton (abdomen) carries no injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Patriots.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was a limited participant for the first two practices of the week, but practiced in full Friday and will be good to go for Sunday's contest. Bolton returned Week 14 against the Bills after spending five games on injured reserve with a dislocated wrist and finished that contest with eight tackles (five solo).
Dec 13, 2023
Now dealing with abdominal issue
Bolton was a limited participant in practice Wednesday due to his lingering wrist injury and a new abdominal issue.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was on injured reserve for six weeks and missed five games due to a dislocated wrist before returning last Sunday against Buffalo, so it's no surprise that he's still dealing with lingering effects of that injury. However, Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com reports that the linebacker's limited participation in practice Wednesday was more a result of an abdomen issue, which is certainly something to keep an eye on for the remainder of the week. Bolton should still have a good chance of suiting up this Sunday in New England, especially if he can log a full practice before the weekend.
Dec 12, 2023
Solid in return
Bolton logged eight tackles (five solo) and a pass deflection in the Chiefs' 20-17 loss to the Bills on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Bolton had a solid outing Sunday after spending the past six games on injured reserve with a wrist injury. In his first game back, the 2021 second-round pick managed to finish second on the team in tackles, bringing his total on the season to 36 (20 solo) in just five games.
Dec 9, 2023
Activated off IR
The Chiefs activated Bolton (wrist) from injured reserve Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was able to participate in full this week and carried no injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Bills. He's played just four games this season, as he's missed time with an ankle injury and, most recently, a dislocated wrist that required surgery. Bolton will resume his starting spot at middle linebacker and help bolster a Chiefs defense that ranks fourth in the NFL in yards allowed per game (297.7).
Dec 8, 2023
Appears poised to return Sunday
Bolton (wrist) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Bills.
ANALYSIS
Bolton remains on injured reserve, but the Chiefs are expected to formally activate him before Saturday's 4 p.m. ET deadline for Week 14 roster moves, per Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com. The standout linebacker has appeared in just four games this season, missing Weeks 3 through 5 with an ankle injury before suffering a dislocated wrist in late October and requiring surgery. He's missed Kansas City's last five games while recovering from the injury, but after returning to practice last week as a limited participant, Bolton proceeded to log three full practices this week to clear up any lingering concern about his health.
Dec 6, 2023
Logs full practice Wednesday
Bolton (wrist) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice session.
ANALYSIS
The Chiefs designated Bolton to return from IR on Nov. 29. It's his first full practice session since being placed on injured reserve Oct. 28. Bolton's chances of returning for Week 14 against the Bills will continue to improve if he's able to participate in practices leading up to the contest.
Dec 1, 2023
Staying on IR through Week 13
Bolton (wrist) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday night's game against the Packers.
ANALYSIS
The third-year linebacker was designated to return from injured reserve Wednesday, but it seems as if he's not ready for in-game action just yet. Bolton was able to log a week of limited practice sessions, and he's in line to miss his fifth consecutive game Sunday. Leo Chenal and Darius Harris should continue seeing increased work in Kansas City's linebacker corps until Bolton is ready to return to the field.
Nov 29, 2023
On practice field Wednesday
The Chiefs designated Bolton (wrist) for return from their injured reserve list Wednesday, Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Kansas City now has 21 days to officially activate Bolton from its injured reserve list before it would have to shut him down for the remainder of the season. The Chiefs' injury reports over the week will shed light on whether he'll be available for Week 13 at Green Bay.
Oct 28, 2023
Moved to IR
The Chiefs placed Bolton (wrist) on injured reserve Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Bolton dislocated his wrist in the second half of the Chiefs' 31-17 win over the Chargers in Week 7. Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported Monday that Bolton was set to undergo surgery for the injury and will be out for two months. Bolton has played in just four games this season and missed time earlier in the year with an ankle injury. In his absence, Drue Tranquill and Leo Chenal are candidates to receive more playing time at linebacker next to veteran Willie Gay.
Oct 23, 2023
Needs wrist surgery, out two months
Bolton will require surgery after suffering a dislocated wrist in Sunday's 31-17 win over the Chargers and is expected to miss roughly two months, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton tallied a season-high nine tackles over 45 defensive snaps before departing late in the second half of Sunday's win with the wrist injury. An MRI on Monday revealed that he dislocated the wrist, and with surgery on tap, the Chiefs will now be without the star linebacker at least until around early December. Drue Tranquill and Leo Chenal are both likely to benefit from upticks in snaps alongside fellow linebacker Willie Gay while Bolton is sidelined. Bolton had already missed three games earlier this season due to an ankle injury.
Oct 22, 2023
Exits game early
Bolton (wrist) left Sunday's 31-17 win over the Chargers early.
ANALYSIS
Bolton left the game in the second half with a wrist injury and did not return prior to the conclusion. The linebacker's status is worth monitoring heading into next week.
Oct 14, 2023
Picks off pass Thursday
Bolton finished with four tackles (three solo) and an interception in a 19-8 win against Denver on Thursday Night Football.
ANALYSIS
Bolton missed each of Kansas City's previous three contests due to an ankle injury but was able to line up for 88 percent of the team's defensive snaps Thursday. His four tackles were a season-low mark, though he made up for that modest total with his first pickoff of the campaign. Bolton's missed time will make it very difficult for him to match last season's massive tackle total of 180, but the star linebacker should remain an elite IDP option every time he's able to suit up.
Oct 11, 2023
Good to go for TNF
Bolton (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Thursday's game against the Broncos.
ANALYSIS
The Chiefs will have one of the league's better LBs back on the field Thursday night after a three-game absence, potentially elevating a defense that's already been playing well. Bolton had 180 tackles last year and 15 over the first two weeks of this season, with his absence the past three weeks allowing Drue Tranquil to accumulate 27 tackles in a three-down role.
Oct 10, 2023
Logs limited practice Tuesday
Bolton (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Tuesday.
ANALYSIS
After missing a third consecutive game Sunday at Minnesota, Bolton was limited during Kansas City's first practice of the new week. He'll have one more chance to practice in full before Thursday's game versus Denver.
Oct 8, 2023
Not playing Sunday
Bolton (ankle) is out for Sunday's game against the Vikings.
ANALYSIS
This will be the third straight missed game for the Chiefs' starting middle linebacker. Bolton made a combined 15 tackles in his two starts this season. Drue Tranquill should play in his absence.
Oct 6, 2023
Questionable for Sunday at Vikings
Bolton (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Minnesota.
ANALYSIS
Bolton has been sidelined for Kansas City's last two games, but he gave himself a chance to play in Week 5 by returning to practice Wednesday, albeit in a limited capacity. If he's out again though, Drue Tranquill figures to step back into a larger role at linebacker.
Oct 4, 2023
Still limited by ankle
Bolton (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
His presence at practice at all is an encouraging sign for Bolton after he's missed Kansas City's last two games, but his availability for Week 5 is still up in the air. If he can log a full practice Thursday or Friday, he may be able to shed his injury designation prior to Sunday.
Oct 4, 2023
Returns to practice
Bolton (ankle) was able to practice Wednesday, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton has missed each of the team's last two games, but it appears he'll have a chance to play Sunday against the Vikings. It's still unclear whether he was limited or participated in full, but his return to the field in either form is a step in the right direction and positive news for the Chiefs.
Sep 29, 2023
Ruled out for Sunday
Bolton (ankle) is listed as out for Sunday's game against the Jets.
ANALYSIS
Bolton will miss his second consecutive game as he is still recovering from an ankle injury. With the 23-year-old out again, Jack Cochrane will start at inside linebacker alongside Leo Chenal.
Sep 27, 2023
Sidelined again
Bolton (ankle) did not practice Wednesday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was also unable to practice last week leading up to his absence from the team's Week 3 win over the Bears. He'll work to get back on the field and will likely need to do so by Friday at the latest if he's going to suit up Week 4 against the Jets.
Sep 22, 2023
Won't play vs. Chicago
Bolton (ankle) is listed as out for Sunday's game versus the Bears, Sam McDowell of The Kansas City Star reports.
ANALYSIS
After he missed practice during the week, it's not a huge surprise to see that Bolton won't suit up for Week 3. In his stead, Drue Tranquill is a candidate to see increased reps at linebacker along with Willie Gay and Leo Chenal.
Sep 21, 2023
Sidelined again
Bolton (ankle) will not practice Thursday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton will log his second straight DNP leaving him firmly questionable for Sunday's game against the Bears. If he's unable to recover in time for the contest, Jack Cochrane will likely get the start at middle linebacker.
Sep 20, 2023
Picks up injury designation
Bolton (ankle) will not practice Wednesday, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Bolton likely picked up the injury late in Sunday's win against the Jaguars, as he still played 80 percent of the team's snaps on defense. Whether or not he's truly in danger of missing Sunday's game against the Bears will likely reveal itself Thursday, if he's still unable to practice then.
Sep 18, 2023
Solid game in Week 2
Bolton recorded eight tackles in Sunday's 17-9 win at the Jaguars.
ANALYSIS
Despite a very pass-heavy game from Trevor Lawrence and Jacksonville's offense, Bolton still managed to put up a good tackle total Sunday. He's well on his way to another highly-productive season and remains a great IDP option headed into a Week 3 matchup versus Chicago.
Sep 8, 2023
Records seven stops in loss
Bolton notched seven tackles (four solo) during Thursday's 21-20 loss to the Lions.
ANALYSIS
Bolton, who racked up a tremendous 180 tackles (108 solo) across 17 games last season, is off to a solid start to begin the 2023 campaign. He played 96 percent of defensive snaps versus Detroit and stands to handle a similarly integral role at Jacksonville in Week 2, which makes him a high-end IDP option.
Jan 17, 2023
Finishes NFL runner-up in tackles
Bolton compiled 16 tackles (eight solo) in the 31-13 win over the Raiders in Week 18.
ANALYSIS
Bolton couldn't quite catch Foye Olukun (184 total tackles) to lead the league in tackles, but his 180 on the year were good enough to finish second ahead of Roquan Smith (169). Bolton has tallied triple-digit tackles in each of his first two campaigns but added to his repertoire in 2022, notching a pair of sacks and a pair of interceptions. The 2021 second-round pick has lived up to his draft status and more through the two seasons and could man the middle of the defense in Kansas City for years to come. At the very least, Bolton remains on his rookie deal for two more seasons, though the Chiefs will likely look to extend him before that expires.
Jan 4, 2023
Double-digit stops in win
Bolton recorded 10 tackles (four solo) and a pass defended in Sunday's 27-24 win versus Denver.
ANALYSIS
Bolton logged his ninth double-digit tackle outing of the season. His 165 tackles this season only rank behind Jaguars linebacker Foye Oluokun (171) in the NFL this season. Bolton should have a chance to finish as the league's leading tackler if he can post another prolific performance Week 18 against Las Vegas.
Dec 26, 2022
Sets career high Saturday
Bolton recorded 17 tackles (eight solo) in Saturday's 24-10 win over the Seahawks.
ANALYSIS
Bolton's 17 stops this past weekend now accounts for his new career high in that department, surpassing his previous 16-stop performance he put forth in Week 13 versus Cincinnati. The second-year pro now ranks No. 3 in the NFL with 154 tackles on the season, and he'll likely remain heavily involved in Kansas City's defensive game plan when the Chiefs host the Broncos on New Year's Day.
Dec 20, 2022
Paltry performance Week 15
Bolton tallied seven tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 30-24 overtime victory against Houston.
ANALYSIS
This marked Bolton's least productive outing since his three-tackle outing versus Tennessee in Week 9. While seven tackles is a solid performance for most defenders, the second-year linebacker has been a tackling machine this season, notching double-digit tackles in seven of 14 games now this season. Bolton will look to increase his production Saturday against Seattle.
Dec 13, 2022
Fall short of 10 tackles
Bolton posted nine tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 34-28 win against the Broncos.
ANALYSIS
Bolton did not record double-digit stops for the first time in four weeks, and he has eclipsed 10 stops in seven of 13 games. The second-year linebacker also made an impact in pass defense, as six of his nine stops came against Denver receivers. Bolton is now tied for fourth in the league with 131 tackles through 14 weeks. He should have a chance to put up an impressive stat line while facing Houston's shaky offense Week 15.
Dec 9, 2022
Logs full practice Friday
Bolton doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's matchup against Denver.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was limited during the first two practices of Week 14 prep due to a groin injury but returned to full participation Friday and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday. Across 12 appearances, the second-year linebacker has totaled 122 tackles, two sacks, two interceptions and one forced fumble.
Dec 7, 2022
Limited with groin issue
Bolton (groin) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, per the team's official site.
ANALYSIS
Considering that Bolton played every defensive snap against a relentless Bengals' offense this past Sunday, his limited participation in Wednesday's session could perhaps be maintenance-related more than anything. The 22-year-old is coming off of a career-high 16 tackles, and he'll have two more opportunities to return to full speed before Kansas City would have to tag him with an injury designation heading into this weekend's matchup versus Denver.
Dec 6, 2022
Gigantic outing in loss
Bolton logged 16 tackles (eight solo) during Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Bengals.
ANALYSIS
Bolton set a new career high while once again playing every defensive snap in this resounding Week 14 performance. The second-year linebacker has been the Chiefs' top tacker this season, so, with the team's defense unable to get off the field for much of the game, this resounding production followed. Bolton has now logged double-digit stops in each of the last three games, and he currently ranks as the league's fifth-leading tackler (122) through 13 weeks. However, he might not see as many tackling opportunities if the Broncos' stumbling offense fails to establish any consistency versus Kansas City in Week 14.
Nov 28, 2022
Grabs another INT in Week 12
Bolton recorded 11 tackles (eight solo) and one interception during Sunday's 26-10 win versus the Rams.
ANALYSIS
Bolton notched the second interception of his career after picking off Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert just last week. The 22-year-old linebacker also logged double-digit tackles for the sixth this season, and he once again finished with a team high in this category. Bolton is now only seven stops away from setting a new career high in tackles.
Nov 22, 2022
Stuffs stat sheet in win
Bolton recorded 14 tackles (10 solo), one interception and one forced fumble in Sunday's 30-27 win over the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
Bolton recorded far and away his best outing of the 2022 campaign, as he logged a season high in tackles and forced his first two turnovers of the season. This performance also marked the second-year linebacker's fifth double-digit tackle outing of the season, and he now sits in a four-way tie for the sixth most tackles (95) in the NFL through 11 weeks. Bolton will look to keep up his emergent 2022 campaign over the Chiefs' final seven games of the season.
Nov 14, 2022
Eight tackles Sunday
Bolton logged eight tackles (five solo) during Sunday's 27-17 victory versus the Jaguars.
ANALYSIS
Bolton played 100 percent of the Chiefs' defensive snaps for the fifth time in nine games. The 22-year-old also tied fellow linebacker Willie Gay as the team's leading tacklers Sunday. Bolton has now logged a team-high 81 tackles to go along with two sacks this season, and he'll have a chance to come away with yet another productive outing this coming Sunday against the Chargers.
Oct 25, 2022
Amasses nine stops in Sunday's win
Bolton collected nine tackles (seven solo) during Sunday's 44-23 win over the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
Bolton's nine stops during Sunday's win over San Fransisco now ranks him tied for sixth among the NFL's tackling leaders thus far in 2022 with 69 in that department. The 22-year-old linebacker is off to a hot start in his second season with the Chiefs, and he'll look to keep momentum rolling after Kansas City's Week 8 bye when the team hosts Tennessee on Sunday night in Week 9.
Oct 19, 2022
Season-high 13 stops in loss
Bolton recorded 13 tackles (nine solo), including two for loss, during Sunday's 24-20 loss to the Bills.
ANALYSIS
The second-year linebacker recorded a season-high 13 stops, marking his third double-digit tackle outing of the campaign. Across six appearances, Bolton has totaled 60 stops and two sacks, making him a top IDP option moving forward.
Oct 11, 2022
Logs nine tackles
Bolton recorded nine tackles (seven solo) in Monday's 30-29 win over the Raiders.
ANALYSIS
Bolton has now totaled 47 tackles (32 solo) and two sacks through his five games this season. The 22-year-old continues to lead the Chiefs' linebackers in defensive snaps played (304) and will look to continue building his defensive stats this Sunday against Buffalo.
Oct 4, 2022
Racks up eight tackles in win
Bolton recorded eight tackles (six solo) in Sunday's 41-31 win over the Buccaneers.
ANALYSIS
The 22-year-old linebacker's eight tackles in Week 4 brings his total up to 37 on the year. What's even more impressive is that Bolton was able to play every single defensive snap Sunday against Tampa Bay, and he'll look to produce another effective outing when the team hosts the Raiders on Monday night.
Sep 27, 2022
Secures first career sacks
Bolton registered nine tackles (six solo), one of which was for a loss, and two sacks in the Chiefs' 20-17 loss to the Colts on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Bolton's nine tackles were his lowest total on the season, but he managed to get to Matt Ryan twice in the loss. The second-year pro is off to a great start statistically, having already compiled 29 tackles (19 solo), two TFL's and two sacks. He'll look to keep rolling in Week 4 against the Buccaneers.
Sep 16, 2022
Double-digit tackes in win
Bolton recorded 10 tackles (five solo) during Thursday's 27-24 win over the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
Willie Gay outpaced Bolton by one tackle, but the latter still finished with double-digit sacks for a second straight game. As a rookie, the 2021 second-round pick totaled 112 tackles across 16 appearances and appears on his way to another 100-plus tackle season.
Jan 14, 2022
Tops century mark in tackles
Bolton racked up 112 tackles (70 solo) and took a fumble to the house for a touchdown during 2021.
ANALYSIS
Bolton wasted no time integrating into the Chiefs' defense after being the first pick off the board for the club in the 2021 NFL Draft. He's gotten his career off to a promising start and could be a perennial triple-digit tackler if his rookie campaign is any indication.
Dec 30, 2021
No injury designation
Bolton (undisclosed) wasn't listed on Thursday's injury report.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was held out against the Steelers last week, likely as a precaution considering he was removed from COVID protocol only one day before the game. He should get a full week of practice under his belt before Sunday's game against the Bengals and move back into a starting role at linebacker.
Dec 26, 2021
Won't play Sunday
Bolton (undisclosed) has been downgraded from questionable to out for Sunday's contest against the Steelers.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Saturday, but he likely still needs to regain his conditioning. In his absence, Melvin Ingram is expected to see increased snaps.
Dec 25, 2021
Returns from COVID list
Bolton was activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Saturday, Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 Houston reports, yet he still is listed as questionable for Sunday against the Steelers according to the Chiefs' injury report.
ANALYSIS
Bolton only spent four days on the COVID list, but he still may not be ready to return. The second-round selected rookie has played a significant role on the Chiefs' defense, so his return Sunday against the Steelers would be a boost for the unit. However, if he is unable to play, Melvin Ingram would likely draw the start in Bolton's place.
Dec 21, 2021
Put on COVID-19 list
Bolton was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
The linebacker just made a career-high 10 solo tackles on Thursday Night against the Chargers, but he will now become the latest Chief to join the COVID-19 list. Bolton was one of seven Chiefs players that were added to the list Tuesday, joining teammates Tyreek Hill and Blake Bell, amongst others.
Dec 20, 2021
Notches 14 tackles in OT win
Bolton racked up 14 tackles (10 solo), three passes defensed and a quarterback hit in Thursday's 34-28 overtime win over the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
Bolton was on the field for a career-high 79 defensive snaps and made the most of his busy workload. The rookie second-round pick came one tackle shy of his Week 7 career high while notching the first three passes defensed of his career. After seeing his usage plummet for a few weeks, Bolton's back to playing an every-down role.
Dec 13, 2021
Logs best performance in weeks
Bolton (wrist) recorded six tackles (three solo) in Sunday's 48-9 win over Las Vegas.
ANALYSIS
Bolton had his most tackles and played his most defensive snaps (47 percent) since Week 9. The rookie has seen his playing time slip over that stretch, playing 35 percent or less of the Chiefs' defensive snaps over the previous three weeks, and may only have seen the increase in usage because the game turned into an early blowout. Bolton will likely return to his usual playing time in an important Thursday night matchup against the division rival Chargers.
Nov 10, 2021
Manages five tackles
Bolton produced five tackles (one solo) during Sunday's 13-7 win over the Packers.
ANALYSIS
Bolton's five tackle performance was lackluster when compared to his 35 total tackles over his previous three contests. The rookie linebacker will look to bounce back against the Raiders in Week 10.
Nov 2, 2021
Piles up tackles
Bolton tallied 11 tackles (four solo) in Monday's game versus the Giants.
ANALYSIS
Bolton has finished with double-digit tackles in back-to-back weeks after not reaching that threshold previously through the first six. Bolton posted his best PFF grade of the season (82.7) Monday, which could be a signal that the rookie linebacker is settling into his role on defense.
Oct 25, 2021
Racks up 15 tackles
Bolton had 15 tackles (nine solo) during Sunday's 27-3 loss to the Titans.
ANALYSIS
Bolton led the linebacking corps by playing 84 percent of the defensive snaps in the blowout loss, and he recorded double-digit tackles for the first time this season. He also tallied four tackles for a loss. The rookie second-round pick has 55 tackles (39 solo) through seven games this season.
Oct 19, 2021
Tallies nine stops
Bolton recorded nine tackles and one tackle for loss in Sunday's 31-11 win over Washington.
ANALYSIS
Bolton matched his season-best mark of nine tackles, though he has yet to record a sack or force a fumble. He currently leads the Chiefs with 40 stops through six contests on the campaign.
Sep 22, 2021
Solid on SNF
Bolton posted nine tackles (eight solo) in Sunday's 36-35 loss to the Ravens.
ANALYSIS
A second-round pick out of Missouri, Bolton has impressed through his first two NFL games with 16 tackles (12 solo). His role could eventually decrease if Willie Gay (toe) returns from injured reserve in Week 4, but there's a chance Bolton has the talent to retain the job outright.
Sep 14, 2021
Seven stops in debut
Bolton recorded seven tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 33-29 win over the Browns.
ANALYSIS
A rookie second-round pick, Bolton tied cornerback L'Jarius Sneed and Juan Thornhill for the team lead in tackles during his NFL debut. The 21-year-old is expected to maintain the starting job this season, which means he should have some IDP upside, though teams don't run the ball frequently against the Chiefs.