Kansas City Chiefs Plan Bold Moves in 2026 NFL Draft After Disappointing Season
After an impressive streak of 10 straight playoff appearances, nine consecutive AFC West titles, and five Super Bowl appearances (with three wins), the Kansas City Chiefs faced a challenging 2025 season. A significant turning point occurred when Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn ACL in a pivotal Week 15 loss, which ultimately eliminated the team from playoff contention. In this extended offseason, the Chiefs made notable roster changes, including: Trading Pro-Bowl cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams. Retaining tight end Travis Kelce. Acquiring Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker III. Losing key players such as cornerback Jaylen Watson, safety Bryan Cook, and linebacker Leo Chenal. Trading for Justin Fields to provide quarterback depth while Mahomes recovers. With these transitions, the Chiefs find themselves in a unique position. The secondary and pass rush require significant reinforcements, and the pass-catching group is also in need of upgrades. Currently, the Chiefs are poised to make their first top-10 pick since 2017, holding the No. 9 pick—the earliest since 2013. Despite the challenges, the Chiefs still possess a strong core with Mahomes, Walker, Kelce, and a formidable offensive line. However, the 2025 struggles and Mahomes' injury indicate a potential gap year for the franchise. As they prepare for the crucial 2026 NFL Draft, the Chiefs hold nine selections, including: Round 1: Pick 9 Round 1: Pick 29 (via Rams) Round 2: Pick 40 Round 3: Pick 74 Round 4: Pick 109 Round 5: Pick 148 Round 5: Pick 169 (via Rams) Round 5: Pick 176 (compensatory) Round 6: Pick 210 (via Rams) This draft class is pivotal for the Chiefs, as they aim to either return to Super Bowl contention or lay the groundwork for future success.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-03-31