That early activity centers around a few key spots. Arizona at No. 3 and Tennessee at No. 4 are both viewed as potential trade-down candidates, opening the door for aggressive teams to jump into premium positions. At the same time, attention is quietly shifting toward the middle of the first round, where teams like the Dallas Cowboys are being closely monitored due to clear defensive needs.

According to Jeremy Fowler: “Teams starting to work phones for trades up/down. Belief in league circles is that Arizona and Tennessee are both open to moving back. Many watching Dallas closely, due to obvious defensive needs. Cowboys not overly active on phones yet. Open-minded about potential move but also comfortable staying put. Next week will bring more clarity.”

Giants are in a huge problem before 2026 NFL Draft

For the Giants, this growing trade activity could create a real problem. Sitting near the top of the draft, they may have a clear group of targets, but not full control over how the board falls. If teams like the Kansas City Chiefs or the Cowboys decide to move up, New York could be leapfrogged at a critical moment.

That scenario becomes especially important when considering prospects like Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs, or even Jeremiyah Love. All three represent high-impact options, and losing out on one of them due to a trade-up from another team could force the Giants into a difficult pivot.

This is the reality of a draft with tight prospect grades and multiple teams searching for answers. It only takes one aggressive move to shift everything. And as the phones get busier, the Giants may have to prepare not just for who they want, but for who might be taken right before them.

For Tennessee, the logic is clear. Pairing an explosive weapon like Love with quarterback Cam Ward in his second NFL season could accelerate the development of the offense. Rather than filling other roster holes, the Titans may choose to invest in a dynamic playmaker capable of transforming their identity. Mel Kiper Jr. projects that’s the name for the Titans.

“Will the Titans take the plunge? We haven’t seen a running back go this early since Saquon Barkley went No. 2 eight years ago, but Love has the goods to come off the board in the top five. And while the case could easily be made that Tennessee has other, more important holes to fill on its roster, it’d be a mistake to look at Love solely as a traditional running back.”

Will the Titans pick Jeremiyah Love?

If the Titans do take Love at No. 4, the ripple effects would be immediate. Several teams, including the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, Kansas City Chiefs, and Dallas Cowboys, have been linked to the running back, and his early selection would force them to pivot quickly.

Many of those teams have been expected to prioritize defense, but Love’s availability has been seen as a potential wildcard. If he’s off the board early, those defensive plans may solidify, removing the temptation to shift toward offense at the last moment.

At the same time, Tennessee’s decision would signal a different philosophy. Instead of following positional trends, the Titans would be betting on elite playmaking ability and offensive upside. In a draft filled with uncertainty, that kind of aggressive move could not only reshape their roster, but also redefine how the rest of the first round unfolds.

Kiper believes the Titans cannot pass on a generational player. “He’s a playmaker who can put a jolt in the Titans’ offense in the backfield with quarterback Cam Ward. Love will break free for home runs; he will haul in tough catches when flexed outside; and he will power over defenders to extend drives. With both of the top edge rushers off the board, we could see a new No. 1 running back ahead of Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears and Michael Carter in Tennessee.”

This approach reflects the current state of the roster. The Chiefs want to be Super Bowl contenders again and, after a disappointing 2025 season, there are clear areas that need reinforcement on both sides of the ball.

General manager Brett Veach made that philosophy clear when discussing the team’s priorities. “There’s a lot of areas to improve on our roster. On both sides of the football. I think it does open up that No. 9 pick to go in any direction. We’ll see how the first five or six picks go, but I think whether it’s the defensive backfield, the offensive line, edge rusher, wide receiver. We need help in all those areas.”

Who will the Chiefs pick in 2026 NFL Draft?

The Kansas City Chiefs have a lot of options on the table ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Jeremiyah Love could be a great pick, but, if he’s not available, everything changes.

Veach’s comments highlight just how wide open this choice really is. Defensive back, offensive line, edge rusher, and wide receiver are all possibilities, meaning the Chiefs are likely to follow a best-player-available strategy rather than forcing a need. Interesting thing, Brett didn’t say running back.

That flexibility becomes even more valuable in a draft class where prospect grades are tightly grouped. If the board breaks unexpectedly in the top five or six selections, Kansas City could pivot quickly, either capitalizing on a falling talent or even exploring trade scenarios. In the case of Love, they already have Kenneth Walker, but, the prospect of Notre Dame could fill the position for a decade.

At the same time, this openness signals a broader mindset. The Chiefs are not viewing this as a one-position fix, but rather an opportunity to strengthen multiple layers of the roster. Whether it’s protecting Patrick Mahomes, adding pass rush alongside Chris Jones, or injecting more playmaking into the offense, all options remain viable.

Ultimately, the No. 9 pick could define how aggressive the Chiefs want to be moving forward. With needs across the roster and a fluid draft board, they are positioned to be one of the most intriguing teams to watch on draft night. Furthermore, with two picks in the first-round, a surprising trade to move up is also an alternative.

Chiefs general manager Brett Veach echoed that sentiment, hinting at a wide range of outcomes across the first round. “I think that the fans will be in for a treat next Thursday because I think the grades are going to be so close from some of these tackles and defensive ends and receivers. A lot of these guys that are mocked high may go a little lower and a lot of these guys that are getting mocked a little lower may go higher because I think they’re so close this year. It’s not this huge gap and big fall off. It should be an entertaining night. There will probably be a lot of trades.”

That lack of a clear tiered structure could reshape all strategies. Rather than aggressively targeting a specific player at a fixed spot, teams may become more flexible, either trading down to accumulate future assets or moving up when they identify a prospect they believe stands above the rest. Super Bowl contenders could be ready to make a move.

Chiefs anticipate a lot of trades in 2026 NFL Draft

The perception that this class lacks top quarterbacks could open the door for more trade activity than usual. Teams sitting in the middle or late portion of the first round may look to trade down, stockpiling picks for future drafts instead of reaching for similarly graded players at other positions.

At the same time, the opposite approach could emerge for franchises targeting potential game-changers. Prospects like Jeremiyah Love could drive aggressive trade-up scenarios, as teams look to secure one of the few players viewed as truly special in this class.

Recent weeks have already seen multiple teams linked to trade rumors, including the New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys, and the Chiefs themselves. That growing buzz suggests front offices are actively exploring scenarios rather than locking into static draft plans.

The Chiefs, in particular, stand out as a potential wildcard. They could look to move up, possibly into the top five or near pick No. 6 in a deal with the Cleveland Browns, if they identify a player worth the investment. In that scenario, the Giants should be ready as many teams will try to jump them on the board.

Despite having Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy in the fold, the search for elite, game-changing pass catchers for Patrick Mahomes remains a priority. The offense, long defined by explosiveness, may be looking to reload rather than rely solely on internal development. According to Mel Kiper Jr., Jordan Tyson could be the name called during the first round.

“As Patrick Mahomes works back from his torn left ACL, the Chiefs’ offense is seeking playmakers. Tight end Travis Kelce is back, but he’s 36 years old. Veteran receiver Hollywood Brown is gone to the Eagles. Third-year wideout Xavier Worthy has flashed but scored only one touchdown last season. Where are the real difference-making pass catchers beyond Rashee Rice?”

Who will the Chiefs draft?

The Chiefs could select a wide receiver early and that would signal a clear shift in priorities. While the defense still presents areas of need, investing in another high-end weapon suggests a commitment to maximizing Patrick Mahomes’ window, especially as Travis Kelce enters the later stages of his career.

At the same time, the potential addition of a player like Tyson comes with risk. Kiper emphasized durability concerns and that could pause not only Kansas City, but also other teams evaluating similar profiles.

“We can’t ignore Tyson’s durability concerns, considering he missed a third of his possible college games because of injuries, but we also can’t ignore his fantastic skill set when he is on the field. He makes tough catches in traffic and had 711 yards last season. I’m already picturing Mahomes buying time in the pocket and firing 50-50 balls to Tyson in the end zone.”

“Source: Georgia State WR Ted Hurst is visiting the Giants, Packers and Chiefs this week,” the insider Jordan Schultz revealed on X. “The 6-4, 206-pound Hurst – who recently visited the Falcons, Saints, Dolphins, Colts and Vikings – clocked a 4.42 40 with an impressive 11-2 broad jump. He is a likely 2nd-round pick.”

Hurst has shown the necessary traits to make the leap to the NFL as a high draft pick. Will he be running routes alongside Jaxson Dart or Patrick Mahomes, or will it ultimately be Jordan Love who targets him through the air?

Hurst’s standout 2025 in College Football

During his senior season in 2025, Ted Hurst established himself as a premier vertical threat for Georgia State, earning First-team All-Sun Belt honors. He led the Panthers with 71 receptions for 1,004 yards and 6 touchdowns, averaging 14.1 yards per catch.

Standing at 6’4″, Hurst finished the year ranked 12th nationally in total receiving yards, a performance that has recently solidified his status as a rising prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Where does Hurst fit best?

Among the three teams meeting with him this week, the Kansas City Chiefs might represent the most intriguing fit for Ted Hurst. While the Packers value his 9.90 RAS and the Giants desperately need his 6’4″ frame for their rebuilding offense, Hurst’s 4.42 speed and vertical tracking make him a lethal weapon for Patrick Mahomes.

The Chiefs have traditionally favored smaller, shifty receivers, but adding Hurst’s would provide a much-needed physical presence in the red zone. If he lands in Kansas City, his ability to stretch the field could turn him into the ultimate deep-threat complement to their existing speedsters.

The early draft picks of these teams

They were asked “do you want a rookie or a vet in the wide receiver room?” to which Thornton replied “a dog.” Rice went more in depth, saying “AJ Brown would be nice in the room, but we go get Carnell Tate or something, that’d be fire too.“

There’s been a topic of discussion that the Chiefs WR room is very young, so an experienced, proved weapon like Brown would be amazing. He would immediately become the number one option for Patrick Mahomes.

Rice has failed to establish himself as a true number one

Availability is the best ability, and between injuries and offseason shenanigans, Rice hasn’t been there for the Chiefs. He’s only played in 28 games out of 51 available. While he’s very talented, and unarguably a volume receiver, he is not on the level of AJ Brown, for instance.

Rice is a reliable option on the slot, but pairing him with a certified top five wideout in AJ Brown would be a massive problem, considering that Travis Kelce is also returning. However, AJ Brown’s future is up in the air and no formal information regarding a Chiefs move to get Brown has been reported.

The Chiefs offense needs revamping

The Chiefs ranked 20th in total offense last season, and that speaks about the regression the unit had. Changes were made. Matt Nagy was cleared off his role of offensive coordinator. Also, Eric Bieniemy was brought back to bring the best version out of Patrick Mahomes. Now, they only need a top wideout.

With Patrick Mahomes leading deep playoff runs almost every season, top-10 selections have been out of reach, making this moment particularly valuable for a franchise that rarely gets access to elite draft talent. That rarity has only added to the intrigue surrounding general manager Brett Veach’s strategy. According to draft analyst Matt Miller, there is little clarity around what the Chiefs plan to do.

“In talking to sources both in Kansas City and around the league, there seems to be no strong indicator of where the Chiefs will go with either of their first-round picks. The Chiefs will see how the board falls and have needs at core positions such as offensive tackle, wide receiver, edge rusher, defensive tackle and cornerback. A hot name to watch at corner is Jermod McCoy if he makes it to No. 9.”

Chiefs embracing uncertainty ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

That ambiguity may not be accidental. Brett Veach has built a reputation for operating quietly, and in this cycle, the Chiefs appear to be sending mixed signals.

By avoiding any strong public lean, Kansas City could be attempting to keep other teams guessing, potentially influencing how the board unfolds ahead of their pick.

Several prospects have been linked to Kansas City through various reports and rumors. Running back Jeremiyah Love has been mentioned as a dynamic offensive option, while offensive tackle Spencer Fano could address protection needs up front.

On defense, edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. and safety Caleb Downs have also surfaced as potential targets, each offering high-impact upside at premium positions.

Who will the Chiefs draft in the first round?

Cornerback Jermod McCoy is another name gaining traction, especially given the importance of strengthening the secondary after losing Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson.

Ultimately, the Chiefs’ uncertainty may be their greatest advantage. With no clear consensus on their direction, rival teams are left to prepare for multiple scenarios.

In a draft where information often dictates strategy, Kansas City’s ability to stay unpredictable could give them a crucial edge, especially with a top-10 pick they are unlikely to have again anytime soon.

Holding the No. 9 overall pick, they have been linked to offensive playmakers like Jeremiyah Love, yet many around the league believe the real priority should be on the defensive side of the ball. After a 2025 season in which the pass rush repeatedly disappeared in critical moments, the need for reinforcements up front has become difficult to ignore.

That sentiment was echoed by insider Nate Taylor, who pointed directly at the edge position as the team’s biggest concern. “Coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach should concentrate on adding to the Chiefs’ pass rush. Right now, the Chiefs don’t have a starter on the edge opposite George Karlaftis. By targeting one of the top defensive linemen, the Chiefs could help take the burden off defensive tackle Chris Jones, who often has to beat two offensive linemen to pressure the opposing quarterback.”

Chiefs need defensive help

The struggles were especially evident in clutch situations last season. Time and again, Patrick Mahomes did his part, engineering late-game drives to either tie or take the lead.

But unlike previous championship runs, the defense failed to close games out. Without a reliable pass rush to pressure opposing quarterbacks in those final minutes, Kansas City couldn’t deliver the same dominant finishes that once defined Super Bowl success.

Chiefs face key decision at in 2026 NFL Draft

The dilemma for Kansas City is whether to resist the temptation of adding another offensive weapon. A player like Jeremiyah Love would undoubtedly bring explosiveness, but the Chiefs’ identity has long been tied to balance and, right now, that balance is off. Investing in a premier edge rusher could immediately elevate the defense and restore the late-game dominance that has been missing.

Adding help on the edge would also create a ripple effect across the defensive front. With more consistent pressure from the outside, Chris Jones would face fewer double teams, allowing him to be even more disruptive inside. Meanwhile, George Karlaftis would benefit from not carrying the full burden of edge production, giving the unit a more complete and dangerous look.

Ultimately, the No. 9 pick represents a defining moment for the Chiefs’ roster construction. Doubling down on offense may be tempting with Mahomes under center, but the lessons from 2025 are clear. If Andy Reid wants to return to championship form, reinforcing the pass rush may not just be an option, it could be a necessity.

Todd McShay shed light on who that target could be if the Chiefs ultimately prioritize the position. “It’s not going to be Francis Mauigoa. If anything, I’ve heard it’s going to be Spencer Fano if they take an offensive tackle.”

The comment suggests the Chiefs may already have a preference among the top tackles on the board. While Francis Mauigoa has frequently been linked to teams inside the top 10, Fano’s athletic profile and pass protection upside could make him a better schematic fit for Kansas City after this college career with Utah.

Are the Chiefs going offensive line at No. 9 in 2026 Draft?

Despite the offensive line need, the Chiefs still have a wide range of possibilities. They have been loosely connected to a potential trade up scenario for explosive running back Jeremiyah Love, while others around the league believe Andy Reid and Brett Veach could target a star pass rusher if one slides to No. 9.

Still, the offensive line struggles from 2025 remain difficult to ignore. Pressure off the edge disrupted the offense throughout the season, and protecting Mahomes became an even bigger concern after his left knee injury. Adding a plug-and-play tackle would not only improve pass protection but also help stabilize the run game.

If McShay’s reporting proves accurate, Spencer Fano could quickly emerge as the favorite. A top-10 investment in the offensive line would signal a clear commitment to protecting Mahomes and restoring balance to the Chiefs’ offense heading into the 2026 season.

Rumors even state that the Chiefs could eye a trade in the 2026 NFL Draft to land Rueben Bain. That’s how much interest he is gathering. Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Bengals are hosting Bain on Friday.

The Giants have the 5th pick, while Chiefs are ninth. The Bengals have the 10th overall pick, so it’s a tricky situation for them if they want to land the pass-rusher. Considering the Chiefs could even trade up, the Bengals must do the same apparently.

Bain has one key problem, but plenty of upside

Bain had 9.5 sacks with 15.5 tackles for loss and an interception last season for the Miami Hurricanes. He has the speed, the brute strength and cleverness to create harm against the tackles. He was a menace at the collegiate level.

However, as Warren Sharp pointed out, Bain “will have the shortest arms (30 7/8″) for a 1st round pick at EDGE in the last 20 years.” No player with arms shorter than 31″ has had a double-digit-sack season for the last two decades.

It looks like Bain is a lock to be a top 10 pick

With all these visits and stock just getting up, it’s almost a certainty that Bain will go during the first 10 picks of the 2026 NFL Draft. Bain’s season and helping the Hurricanes go all the way to the National Championship game has made him a name to follow.