Chiefs Bake in Draft Flexibility for 2026

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The Kansas City Chiefs enter the 2026 NFL Draft with a high volume of assets, giving them valuable flexibility to maneuver the board. Last year, the Chiefs traded up to select a top cornerback, but that move cost them a late third-round pick they could have used to address other needs, like running back. This year, the Chiefs have nine total picks, their most since 2022, allowing them to be more strategic in how they approach the draft.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' draft flexibility this year is crucial after they were forced to overpay in free agency for running back Kenneth Walker III last month. Having more picks allows them to potentially trade up, down, or stand pat to address their roster needs without sacrificing future assets.

The details

In 2025, the Chiefs traded up 10 spots in the third round to select cornerback Nohl Williams, giving up a sixth-round pick in 2026. That move paid off, as Williams had a strong rookie season. However, the cost of that trade left the Chiefs without a late third-round pick, which they could have used to address their running back need. Instead, they had to watch as six running backs were selected between their picks in the third and fourth rounds, forcing them to sign Walker in free agency.

• The Chiefs entered the 2025 NFL Draft with two third-round picks: No. 66 and No. 95.
• The Chiefs traded up from No. 95 to No. 85 to select Nohl Williams, giving up a sixth-round pick in 2026.
• Between the Chiefs' picks in the third and fourth rounds in 2025, six running backs were selected, including Bhayshul Tuten, Cam Skattebo, Trevor Etienne, Woody Marks, Jarquez Hunter, and Dylan Sampson.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Chiefs will look to leverage their nine draft picks in 2026 to address their roster needs, including potentially trading up, down, or standing pat depending on how the board falls.