Chiefs Fans Debate Drafting Utah OT Spencer Fano at No. 9

Our writer takes on the latest hot takes and unpopular opinions about the Chiefs' draft plans.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:00pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold colors depicting an abstract football scene, representing the difficult choices the Chiefs face with their first-round selection.A cubist illustration captures the complex strategic decisions facing the Chiefs' front office as they weigh their options for the 9th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.Kansas City Today

In our 'Let's Argue' series, Mark Gunnels considers the hot takes, wacky predictions and unpopular opinions of Kansas City Chiefs fans about the team's potential first-round pick of Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano. While Fano has talent, Gunnels argues the Chiefs have more pressing needs at other positions like edge rusher, wide receiver, and running back.

Why it matters

The Chiefs have several holes to fill on both sides of the ball, and their first-round pick at No. 9 overall will be crucial in addressing their most immediate needs as they look to continue their Super Bowl contention under Patrick Mahomes.

The details

Gunnels believes the Chiefs should target an edge rusher, wide receiver, or running back with the No. 9 pick instead of Fano, who would play right tackle. The team is already strong on the offensive line with starters like left tackle Josh Simmons, left guard Kingsley Suamataia, center Creed Humphrey, and right guard Trey Smith. Projected starter Jaylon Moore at right tackle is 'average at best' according to Gunnels, but the team could also give an opportunity to Esa Pole, an undrafted free agent from last year.

  • The 2023 NFL Draft will take place from April 27-29, 2023.

The players

Spencer Fano

A offensive tackle prospect from the University of Utah who is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs who has led the team to five Super Bowl appearances by age 30.

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs who will be making the team's draft selections, including the No. 9 overall pick.

Josh Simmons

The starting left tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Kingsley Suamataia

The starting left guard for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Creed Humphrey

The starting center for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Trey Smith

The starting right guard for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Jaylon Moore

The projected starting right tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs, who is described as 'average at best' by the writer.

Esa Pole

An undrafted free agent from last year who the writer believes could compete for the starting right tackle job.

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What they’re saying

“This has nothing to do with the player Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano is; he has a chance to be a right tackle in this league for a very long time.”

— Mark Gunnels, Writer

“Ideally, Chiefs general manager Brett Veach selects an edge rusher or a receiver.”

— Mark Gunnels, Writer

“If Moore doesn't work out, I wouldn't mind giving Esa Pole, an undrafted free agent last year, a real shot at competing to play right tackle.”

— Mark Gunnels, Writer

“If Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate is available at pick nine, I would strongly consider taking the draft's top wideout.”

— Mark Gunnels, Writer

“Mahomes has been to five Super Bowls, and he's only 30-years-old. I would gladly take the over here, Bascho.”

— Mark Gunnels, Writer

What’s next

The Chiefs will have a chance to address their roster needs when the 2023 NFL Draft takes place from April 27-29.

The takeaway

The Chiefs have several holes to fill on both sides of the ball, and their first-round pick at No. 9 overall will be crucial in addressing their most immediate needs as they look to continue their Super Bowl contention under Patrick Mahomes. While Utah OT Spencer Fano has talent, the team may be better served targeting positions like edge rusher, wide receiver, or running back with that selection.