Kansas City Chiefs Face Unique Draft Decisions with Top 10 Pick for First Time Since Mahomes
The Kansas City Chiefs find themselves in an unfamiliar position as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, holding the ninth overall pick for the first time since selecting Patrick Mahomes in 2017. After a disappointing 6-11 season in 2025, the Chiefs are looking to address multiple roster needs. Historically, top quarterbacks like Tom Brady, Joe Montana, and Peyton Manning benefited from top 10 picks in their careers. For Mahomes, this marks a pivotal moment as it's the first time the Chiefs have had a top 20 pick since acquiring him. Key needs for the Chiefs include: Running Back: With the signing of Kenneth Walker III, the urgency here has decreased. Tight End: The return of Travis Kelce for a 14th season stabilizes this position. Cornerback: The trade of Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams amplifies this need, as the Chiefs seek to strengthen their secondary. Draft odds favor the selection of an offensive lineman at +250, with other options including defensive line/edge rusher (+275), cornerback (+300), and wide receiver (+320). The Chiefs struggled with pass rush effectiveness last season, emphasizing the need for depth on the defensive line. Among potential picks, Rueben Bain Jr., a Miami pass rusher, stands out as a favorite at +300. Other notable prospects include Mansoor Delane (cornerback) and Spencer Fano (offensive lineman), with varying odds reflecting their likelihood of being selected by Kansas City. With a deeper wide receiver class, the Chiefs may find viable options later in the draft, providing Mahomes with additional targets to enhance their offense.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-04-20