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Kansas City Chiefs big board: 10 prospects each draft day that could make sense
Yes, it's early. But here are 30 early names to keep an eye on in the 2026 NFL Draft as the Chiefs look to address their needs.
Feb. 23, 2026 at 11:05am
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The Kansas City Chiefs are taking their draft responsibilities seriously, according to coach Andy Reid. The team will have the ninth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, their first top-10 selection since 2017. This article provides an early look at 10 prospects that could make sense for the Chiefs on each day of the draft, with a focus on premium positions like defensive line and wide receiver.
Why it matters
The 2026 NFL Draft will be an important one for the Chiefs, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 6-11 campaign in 2025. The team has several pressing needs, particularly on the defensive line and at wide receiver, and will be looking to add talent through the draft to help them return to the playoffs.
The details
The Chiefs are expected to target premium positions like defensive line and wide receiver in the early rounds of the draft. Prospects like David Bailey, Rueben Bain Jr., Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, and Makai Lemon could be options at those positions. The team may also look to solidify the offensive line by targeting players like Francis Mauigoa or Spencer Fano. In later rounds, the Chiefs could look to address needs at safety, running back, tight end, and cornerback.
- The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in April.
The players
Andy Reid
The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Brett Veach
The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Patrick Mahomes
The quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Ashton Gillotte
A defensive player drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Travis Kelce
A tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs.
What they’re saying
“They live in that room and go through all these different players. So good things normally come out of those meetings. I look forward to how the draft goes.”
— Andy Reid, Head Coach
What’s next
The Chiefs will continue to evaluate prospects and prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, which will take place in April.
The takeaway
The Kansas City Chiefs are taking a thorough and strategic approach to the 2026 NFL Draft as they look to address their needs and return to the playoffs. With the ninth overall pick and several other early selections, the team has the opportunity to add premium talent that can make an immediate impact.
