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.”

In an exclusive interview with Bolavip, the former Argentine kicker spoke about the current state of the Bucs, delving into what lies ahead for the NFL, and also the valuation of his position, a legacy that his children intend to continue.

In addition, he made it clear who he thinks the GOAT in football is. Gramatica, charismatic and with great analytical ability, emphasized that the league has everything it takes to conquer the entire world and did not miss the opportunity to outline which teams could reach the 2027 Super Bowl.

Bucs’ missed opportunity in 2025 NFL season

Bolavip: You’re someone very closely linked to Tampa, to the Buccaneers. You’re a historic figure for the franchise. Let me ask you: how did you see last season’s ending? It was a very tight division, it almost slipped away. Do you think there was a specific reason why they couldn’t push a bit further?

Martin Gramatica: It was disappointing, honestly, because we were one win away from making the playoffs with five or six games left. If we had won one of those, we would’ve made it. Unfortunately, we couldn’t. We did beat Carolina in the last game, thinking we were in. Atlanta didn’t help us because it beat the Saints, and Carolina ended up going to the playoffs.

We started really well too, I think we were 5–1, there was talk of Baker Mayfield as MVP, everything was perfect, and then the team slowly fell apart. We also had a lot of key injuries—every team has injuries, but when you lose your top two receivers, first Mike Evans, then Chris Godwin. (Emeka) Egbuka started well but then the longer season hit him a bit, the NFL season wore on him a little in the second half of the season.

So I don’t know if I can point to one single factor, there were many factors that didn’t help us. And obviously, being that close and not winning one game out of six, that really hurt.

Bolavip: Recently, Lavonte David spoke about all the injuries Mayfield had to go through last season, and that maybe if he had been healthier, the outcome would have been different. Do you agree with him?

Martin Gramatica: Yes, for sure, because Baker started out, as I said, on his way to MVP. And then his performance dropped a bit, but he took a lot of hits. He got hit a lot. And I think little by little, it started to wear on him, and then he had an injury to his left arm. And even though you don’t throw with your left arm, you use it for balance.

He also had, I think, a hit to his knee as well and his ankle. So, those are all things that one might think ‘Oh, he just throws with his arm.’ But he uses his whole body to throw, and besides his best weapon is when everything breaks down, and he takes off running and gets those first downs.

During that stretch when he was half injured, half banged up, he wasn’t running as much because he knew he couldn’t take a hit. I’m not saying it was fear of getting hit, because this guy lowers his helmet and runs into a wall if he has to, to get a first down.

The thing is, he was protecting himself because one bad hit would have taken him out of the game. He even missed half a game, I think it was Detroit, I don’t remember which one it was, where he left at halftime due to injury. So yeah, that didn’t help him at all. And then also having his superstars get injured. Because the timing with the other receivers also didn’t help him.

Bucs’ future without Mike Evans and 2026 NFL Draft expectations

Bolavip: And now Evans’ absence will be felt—a guy who made history and broke records…

Martin Gramatica: I think it’s going to be felt, especially on the emotional side, because of his leadership and also because he’s an amazing player on the field, obviously, and that safety valve when there was a problem Mayfield would say ‘Ok, I’ll just throw it to Mike Evans and he’ll catch it.’ Especially in the red zone.

And the pressure that Chris Godwin and Egbuka will feel now. Because they’ll be the leaders of that receiver group and they’ll need to have a really great season. Especially Chris Godwin, who’s a veteran, who’s had many injuries, who had a spectacular year when he signed his contract and then injury after injury he hasn’t been able to stay consistent.

So I think this year is key for him. Not only stat-wise in terms of statistics, but also in staying healthy and playing every game. Because that’s also key. He hasn’t been able to finish a season healthy in the last few years.

Bolavip: Now the closest event is the NFL Draft, which keeps everyone on edge. Do you have any idea about what the Bucs might do? What do you think they need?

Martin Gramatica: Last year showed us that they can do anything. They pick who they believe is the best player available at that moment. Last year there was a lot of talk that we needed defensive players. That we needed an edge rusher, someone who could put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and they went with (Emeka) Egbuka, a receiver, who honestly did well, right? And besides, I think they were already looking ahead. With Mike Evans and Chris Godwin getting older, they needed a young guy.

But I think this year is very similar, I think they need a defensive player who comes in with intensity and character. It could be a linebacker because Lavonte David just retired. An edge rusher too—we haven’t had outside pass rush, right? Vita Vea is a wall in the middle, but on the edges we haven’t had someone who can really put pressure on quarterbacks.

But with the Bucs you never know—Jason Licht often surprises. And it’s worked pretty well for him, right? Look at Bucky Irving, an amazing player who was picked in the third round. We focus on the first round, but it’s usually the second, third, or fourth round guys who sometimes surprise everyone, because nobody expected anything, and then they’re starters.

NFL continues to expand

Bolavip: Another big topic is the NFL’s expansion into different countries and cities around the world: Australia, Rio… Do you think the league can really establish itself in other cultures?

Martin Gramatica: Yes, it already has. From a financial standpoint, it’s good for the NFL, good for those cities. The fans in Europe, I went to the game when the Bucs played in London, and the stadium is always packed. What you do see is jerseys of all colors, because they’re fans of all different teams, and there’s a little group of Bucs fans at that time with Carolina.

But the fanbase, yes, there are a lot and I see it also in South America, right? Also Argentina itself has a league, an equipped Flag Football League that competes. So what has made the sport so much more visible and made people start liking it more is social media. It gives access to the sport, because before we had no way to watch it.

When I came at age 9 I didn’t know football existed in the US. Back home we played soccer, a little tennis and that was it. I knew about rugby, right? And a little bit basketball. Now people do know they exist and there are even kids who like it. There are fans in Argentina who prefer football over soccer. That seems crazy to me, but they grew up watching it and liking it.

In Europe they follow it a lot too. Well, when we played a preseason game in Japan, I think it was in 2004 after the Super Bowl, it was a preseason game and it was insane. People would come to practice sessions, the stadium was packed. They knew everything, they even had little cards with photos. For them it was like their Super Bowl, because the games only came once a year. So I think that’s why the NFL knows that it has a strong presence worldwide and that’s why they’re expanding to other countries.

There won’t be another Tom Brady

Bolavip: And regarding your career—you won a Super Bowl, spent time with New England, Indianapolis, New Orleans… and therefore worked with Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Peyton Manning. What was it like?

Martin Gramatica: Well, I’ll always have a soft spot for Brad Johnson because we won the Super Bowl together. The truth is they are players who were stars, they still are stars. Not just in the NFL, even after retiring they’re still superstars because they’re Hall of Famers. And they’re all different, right? Different kind of leaders too.

The truth is Peyton Manning, I remember during practices, the same with Tom Brady, they both wanted to be perfect in practice. With Drew Brees I didn’t connect as much. He was somewhat distant from teammates. I don’t know, Brees’ personality was different, I never got to really know him.

But Brady and Manning, it was impressive what they demanded from their teammates and what they demanded from themselves. And that’s why you see where their teams ended up, right?

Peyton Manning was unlucky to play in the same era as Tom Brady. If not, he would have won three or four Super Bowls. It’s like Cristiano Ronaldo. He is an amazing player but he happened to play in Lionel Messi’s era. So nobody talks about Ronaldo, everyone talks about Messi, because he is so much better. So well, that’s what happened to Manning with Brady. But they’re both superstars.

Bolavip: Let’s say over the last 10 years, do you see in that position someone who reached or can reach Brady’s level?

Martin Gramatica: Brady’s level of winning 7 Super Bowls, I don’t think anyone gets there. Because at one point, I thought Patrick Mahomes could, if Kansas City had beaten Tampa, he would have gotten a bit closer.

But now seven against three Super Bowls, I don’t see Patrick Mahomes catching Brady, not a chance. And no, I don’t think there is, and the way the league is, there’s no player you can point to and say he’s going to be the Tom Brady of the future, who’s going to win four or five Super Bowls or play 20 years either, right?

I don’t think there’s a name like that, no. I really couldn’t tell you because what Tom Brady did is something special, not only for what he did by winning the Super Bowls. Reaching 10 Super Bowls and winning seven, that was impressive. What a career. That is very hard to match, very hard to match.

The value of kickers in the NFL

Bolavip: And in your position, which often defines games, do you think kickers are undervalued?

Martin Gramatica: Before, yes. Now they’re more valued. Today they kick 65 or 70-yard field goals. Contracts are also better. But it always depends on the team. They know that, you can have the best kicker in the league, but if you don’t have the best quarterback you’re not going to win. As a kicker you get it and you know that.

The kicker has the best job Monday to Saturday and the hardest on Sunday: few chances, all or nothing. It’s similar to a goalkeeper in soccer—you can save everything but people remember the one mistake. The pressure is different from any other position because you have very few chances.

Bolavip: Your longest kick was 55 yards. Could a kicker from your era play in today’s NFL?

Martin Gramatica: Yes, the position hasn’t changed much. The setup is the same: distance, angle, snap. Training changed, but the role is similar.

Bolavip: Thinking about the future, your sons Nico Gramatica and Gaston Gramatica…

Martin Gramatica: Well, the only thing what I always say is that we are extremely proud of how they work and how focused they are, of their dedication and the sacrifice they’re making to get there.

You never know if they’ll make it or not because it’s also very hard to make it, you need luck. You need to find a team that let’s you kick, so there are many variables, which is why some very talented kids don’t make it, while others maybe less talented do make it because they have better luck.

The only thing I always say about the kids is that they work themselves to the bone, they are super focused, super dedicated to making it. What I always tell them, whether they make it or not, they shouldn’t regret not having done enough to get there. And if they give everything, and it doesn’t work out, at least they gave it everything, so they can’t blame themselves.

But in that regard, we are incredibly proud. Because Nico, well, being the example as the older brother. And then Gaston too, because it’s not easy to get a scholarship here. It’s very hard, and especially coming out of High School. Because now with the portal, they pick players with College experience.

Nico had the chance to go to USF, and two years later, Gaston goes as well. He was also offered a scholarship by Texas. In football, Texas is very strong, North Carolina also offered him a scholarship out of High School. So you can see that they’ve noticed the effort and his work too.

A hypothetic Super Bowl LXI matchup

Bolavip: And finally, who would you like to see in the next Super Bowl?

Martin Gramatica: You’re putting me in a tough spot, I haven’t even thought about next year! But well, obviously from the NFC, I want the Bucs to be there. I liked what Vrabel did with New England, how he changed the face of the team.

But I would like to see Buffalo make it because I love Josh Allen. And then well, I’m a big fan of (John) Harbaugh, who now went to New York, I don’t want them to make it because it’s on our side of the Conference, but he was the first one to interview me on the NFL, when he was in Philadelphia.

I was just doing some cleaning and I still have his card from when he was in Philadelphia. He was Special Teams Coach back then. That’s why I’ve always liked him, he was a great guy. And gave me a lot of advice knowing that he didn’t need a kicker. He said ‘I want to interview you so that you can get those nerves out, because I don’t need a kicker right now, but i want to help you.’

So a guy that I truly always appreciated that, what he did for me. But yes, so I’d like to see Buffalo make it from the AFC, and obviously Tampa from the NFC side, right?

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH MARTIN GRAMATICA ON BOLAVIP US:

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.

League-wide expectations suggest movement across the board, and the Chiefs appear positioned to take advantage. Andy Reid and Kansas City own two first-round selections, No. 9 and No. 29 overall, giving general manager Brett Veach the flexibility to either add multiple starters or package picks to target a premium prospect.

That flexibility becomes even more valuable if the board begins to shift early. If elite defensive talent starts coming off the board or a generational offensive playmaker becomes available, the Chiefs could be among the teams willing to pay the price to move up and secure a cornerstone player for Patrick Mahomes.

Who will the Chiefs draft in 2026?

One intriguing option is Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, widely viewed as a generational offensive talent who could transform the Chiefs’ attack alongside Patrick Mahomes. Adding an explosive runner would ease pressure on the passing game and give Kansas City a more balanced identity heading into 2026.

However, the Chiefs’ biggest need remains pass rush, and a trade into the top five could instead target a defensive star. Names like Rueben Bain Jr., David Bailey, Arvell Reese, and TJ Parker have all been mentioned as potential fits, while safety Caleb Downs could also emerge as a surprise target.

Insider Jordan Schultz reported that many around the league expect significant movement throughout the first round, which could open the door for teams like Kansas City to move aggressively up the board.

“The expectation among many NFL teams is that the 2026 draft will be one of the more trade-heavy drafts in recent memory, according to multiple league sources. Specifically, on the defensive side of the ball — EDGE, CB and LB are all strong/deep — while WR is typically considered to be the most talented offensive position. Several executives I’ve spoken with believe we’re likely to see a flurry of activity in the first half of Round 1.”

With picks No. 9 and No. 29, the Chiefs have the assets to make a major jump, leaving the biggest question whether they pursue a generational offensive weapon like Love or a defensive cornerstone to strengthen their pass rush.

After being part of a Super Bowl run with the Chiefs during the 2023 season, Taylor will have the big responsibility of protecting Tua Tagovailoa, a quarterback who has suffered several concussions and, as a result, needs his offensive line to deliver strong performances.

Jawaan was one of the most criticized names in 2025 during a year that was brutal for Patrick Mahomes in terms of sacks. Therefore, general manager Brett Veach thought it was best to part ways despite having given him a massive four-year, $80 million contract in 2023.

What’s next for the Chiefs?

The next step for the Chiefs is to rebuild the offensive line. The 2025 season showed that it was very costly to let Joe Thuney go to the Bears, as names like Jawaan Taylor, Jaylon Moore, and Kingsley Suamataia did not deliver. Additionally, rookie Josh Simmons had personal issues that prevented him from reaching his full potential.

Will Patrick Mahomes play in 2026?

Patrick Mahomes is expected to play in 2026 with the Chiefs. Despite his left knee injury, the quarterback is on track in his recovery. However, he will need a solid offensive line to thrive in his comeback.

“The thing I would say with that conversation that I’ve had with Jaxson is just what you said. I think it’s a great point. He’s Jaxson Dart. He’s not Patrick Mahomes,” Nagy stated when asked about imparting some lessons about working with Mahomes.

“I was able to be fortunate enough to be around Patrick for many years, and I saw Patrick as a rookie. . .I got to see four more years of him as a vet. We’ve talked a little bit about the process and what he’s been through, but we’ve also made it clear, you have to be Jaxson Dart. He’s going to do that.“

Surround him in the best way will be the key for the QB: “It’s our job to surround him and insulate him, give him direction, but he has to be able to tell us, how he likes it, why he likes it, and so forth. We’re going to be really intentional on how we do that.”

Nagy and Mahomes in Chiefs Kingdom

During the seasons with Patrick Mahomes and Matt Nagy, the Kansas City Chiefs have achieved incredible success, securing three Super Bowl championships (LIV, LVII, and LVIII). Additionally, this duo has led the team to multiple AFC Championship titles and consistent AFC West division victories, establishing a dominant era in professional football.

Boosting Dart

Following a standout rookie year, Jaxson Dart is poised for a leap in development under the mentorship of new Giants offensive coordinator Matt Nagy. During the 2025 season, Dart proved he belonged in the NFL by throwing for 2,272 yards, 15 touchdowns, and only 5 interceptions across 14 games, finishing with a solid 91.7 passer rating.

Beyond his arm, his mobility was a game-changer, as he added 487 rushing yards and 9 rushing touchdowns. Nagy knows that Dart has something special, and his mission will be to harness this versatility while improving Dart’s durability, ensuring the young quarterback builds on the 63.7% completion rate that made him the 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year.

“… We look forward to getting him in there, but most of all, because he’s a good player. And if Pat can’t [play] for whatever reason, now you’ve got a legitimate guy in there that can play and win games for you,” Reid said to The Athletic’s Jesse Newell.

Fields has been the starter on each of his last three teams, and if he does so with the Chiefs, he would set a record. The truth is that for Reid, this is a relief when it comes to choosing the QB1 for the start of the 2026 NFL season.

“I like his game,” Reid also added. “He can do the drop back game. He can do the movement stuff, play-action, whether it’s a naked or sprint-out game. He has that whole package that he can do. He understands the screen game and how to set it up. He obviously is going to be one of the better athletes on the field when he’s out there.”

How is Mahomes coming into the season opener?

Patrick Mahomes is currently recovering from surgery to repair a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee, an injury sustained in late 2025. While he has already resumed throwing and remains optimistic about a Week 1 return for the Kansas City Chiefs, his availability is still uncertain.

Justin Fields’ 2025 numbers

During the 2025 season with the New York Jets, Justin Fields started 9 games, leading the team to a 2–7 record before being sidelined by a knee injury. He completed 62.7% of his passes for 1,259 yards, recording 7 touchdowns and only 1 interception, while also adding 383 rushing yards and 4 scores on the ground.

Despite his efficiency in protecting the ball, Fields struggled with consistency and was sacked 27 times before eventually being placed on injured reserve in December.

Looking ahead to the next draft

While there is still plenty of time to know whether Patrick Mahomes or Justin Fields will start the season, the truth is that in the Chiefs Kingdom there is a short-term commitment keeping everyone on edge: the draft. These are the Chiefs’ draft picks in 2026:

• Round 1, Pick 9
• Round 1, Pick 29
• Round 2, Pick 40
• Round 3, Pick 74
• Round 4, Pick 109
• Round 5, Pick 148
• Round 5, Pick 169
• Round 5, Pick 176
• Round 6, Pick 210

During an interview with Peter Schrager, general manager Brett Veach acknowledged the flexibility built by the Chiefs heading into draft night, emphasizing the importance of free agency in keeping options open.

“It’s one of those things where, that’s part of free agency, you want to fill in some of those holes so you can have maximum flexibility. The mindset is to have all your bases covered. There are many different ways we can go.”

Will the Chiefs trade up or stay put at No. 9 overall?

This marks the first time Brett Veach will select inside the top 10 as Chiefs general manager, adding another layer of intrigue. The team has traditionally drafted late due to consistent playoff runs, but this position opens the door to elite-tier talent or an aggressive move up the board depending on how the draft unfolds.

Veach suggested the 2026 class presents a different structure compared to previous years, which could influence how teams approach the top part of the draft.

“It’s a unique draft. It’s one of those drafts where there aren’t four quarterbacks. Myles Garrett, Aidan Hutchinson or Will Anderson are not in this draft. Not to say there aren’t great players in this draft. There are great players up and down the board.”

That landscape could benefit the Chiefs if they choose to remain at No. 9, allowing a premium prospect to fall into their range. At the same time, the absence of consensus blue-chip defenders might encourage Kansas City to move up if they identify a specific target, particularly at edge rusher or another impact position.

Veach also made it clear that no option is being ruled out as the team continues evaluating both sides of the roster. “We want to get a lot of work done in free agency. Then, add a great player that’s going to come in here and help us win. I think we have a lot of work to do on both sides of the football. I think really anything’s in play.”

NFL insider Ian Rapoport suggested the Chiefs are doing their homework on elite pass-rushers expected to be selected earlier, hinting at a potential move up the board. “The Chiefs have visited with a couple really good pass-rushers who should go earlier than they pick, which means, at least they’re looking at the potential of moving up in the draft an taking an edge-rusher who could be potentially elite.”

Names like Arvell Reese, David Bailey, and Rueben Bain Jr. have surfaced as intriguing possibilities, all viewed as high-upside defenders who could immediately improve Kansas City’s front seven playing alongside Chris Jones. If the Chiefs decide to be aggressive, one of those prospects could become the target of a draft-day trade to chase a another Super Bowl.

Who will the Chiefs draft?

While the focus appears to be on pass rushers, some speculation has connected the Chiefs to running back Jeremiyah Love. The scenario would likely require a significant move up the board, making it a long shot, but the upside would be enormous.

Landing Love would potentially give Andy Reid one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in the class. Pairing him with Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Kenneth Walker could create one of the most explosive skill groups in the league.

Even if the idea remains unlikely, the mere possibility highlights how aggressive Kansas City could be. Whether targeting an elite pass rusher or making a surprise move for a top overall talent, the Chiefs appear prepared to explore bold options on draft night.