Carmel Junior Defensive End Kristian Chadick’s Rise in Football

Carmel junior defensive end Kristian Chadick recently recorded his first two sacks of the season. These came amidst his visits to Penn State and Illinois, coinciding with his standout performance during a game against Marist. His presence on the field is becoming more noticeable.

That’s the perfect example of me being in the zone during a game where I feel like I was really making my presence known, Chadick noted. College coaches are taking notice of his skills. He received his first Division I offer from Iowa last spring, leading to further opportunities from Cincinnati, Florida Atlantic, North Dakota State, Northwestern, Purdue, Rutgers, and Vanderbilt. He plans to visit Kentucky and defending national champions Indiana soon.

It feels great to have a wide variety of places to choose from, said Chadick. He remains open to deciding on a college when the right opportunity arises.

Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 230 pounds, Chadick has accumulated 37 tackles and two pass breakups this season as the Corsairs hold a 2-5 record. Despite his growth, Chadick acknowledges the need for improvement.

There are always areas that you can improve in, he said. I can definitely improve the way I wrap up tackles and get a grip on ball carriers. You always want to finish the job.

Carmel coach Jason McKie, who understands the role of defensive ends well from his time as a Chicago Bears fullback, values Chadick’s consistent approach.

He may not have the gaudy sack totals, but his being so consistent in the way he attacks really stands out, McKie commented. He’s constantly being a disruptor and getting into the backfield. He uses his arm reach and length effectively.

In his first season as a starter in 2025, Chadick made 28 tackles, 10 for losses, and recorded seven sacks. This season, he focuses on optimizing his reach to penetrate defenses more efficiently.

I’m attacking a little bit more, trying to get into those gaps right on the snap, Chadick said. I definitely try to get a good punch in right from the get-go and use my arm extension to be the aggressor while staying gap-sound.

Teammate Noah Breckenridge sometimes only realizes Chadick’s impact after reviewing game film. During games, Chadick’s presence is felt.

The main thing about him is that he’s really long, Breckenridge explained. The running back can be like 4 yards away from him, and he’ll still get to him. His key is the running back, and it always seems like he’s in the backfield. He’s someone you can count on to make a play when we need it.

Chadick has committed to the weight room, adding 30 pounds since his freshman year and potentially reaching over 250 pounds next season.

I can tell a big difference this year in how I can use my strength, Chadick stated. Getting off blocks is easier because I can get linemen off me immediately.

This season, Chadick also has increased responsibilities, but he is ready for the challenge.

As one of the older guys, I have to be accountable for my actions on and off the field, he said. There is pressure that does occur in my mind, but as long as I get to play, I’m happy, and at the end of the day, I just need to do my job.

Steve Reaven reports as a freelance journalist.