Chiefs Bolster Defense and Offense in 2026 NFL Draft

Kansas City adds top prospects at key positions in latest mock draft roundups

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:32am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With the 2026 NFL Draft just over a month away, experts are projecting how the first round will play out for the Kansas City Chiefs. In the latest mock drafts, the Chiefs are expected to address both sides of the ball, potentially selecting a wide receiver, cornerback, offensive tackle, and defensive linemen in the opening round.

Why it matters

The Chiefs are coming off another strong season but have some key holes to fill, especially in the secondary after trading away Trent McDuffie and losing Jaylen Watson in free agency. Upgrading the offensive line and adding playmakers on offense could also be priorities as the team looks to remain a Super Bowl contender.

The details

In ESPN's latest mock, the Chiefs are projected to select Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate and Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy in the first round. CBS Sports has the team taking Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa and Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell, while USA Today sees them adding Mauigoa and Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood. Sports Illustrated has the Chiefs going with LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane and Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston, and Pro Football Focus has them taking Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey and Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place on April 23 in Pittsburgh.

The players

Carnell Tate

A wide receiver from Ohio State who is considered one of the top pass-catching prospects in the 2026 draft class.

Jermod McCoy

A cornerback from Tennessee who missed the 2025 season due to an ACL injury but is expected to participate in his pro day on March 31.

Francis Mauigoa

An offensive tackle from Miami who could be a long-term solution at the position for the Chiefs.

Avieon Terrell

A cornerback from Clemson who could help the Chiefs rebuild their secondary.

Colton Hood

A cornerback from Tennessee who could step in and start immediately for the Chiefs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Tate is a silky-smooth route runner who has plenty of range as a pass catcher. He also has arguably the best hands in this class, with only one drop on 67 targets last season. He is a three-level threat who displays his polish on all branches of the route tree.”

— Jordan Reid, ESPN Analyst

“If we're going strictly by talent, McCoy is a top-10 prospect in this class. But he hasn't played a game since 2024, missing all of last season after suffering an ACL tear in January 2025.”

— Jordan Reid, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

All eyes will be on Tennessee's pro day on March 31, when cornerback Jermod McCoy is expected to participate in a full workout as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury.

The takeaway

The Chiefs have the opportunity to add multiple high-impact players in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, with the potential to bolster both their offense and defense. These projected selections could help the team remain a contender in the AFC for years to come.