Chiefs Host Top Edge Rusher Prospect for Visit

Rueben Bain Jr. of Miami could be an option for Kansas City with the 9th overall pick.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:06pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football player in a pass rushing pose, with their body broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in the Chiefs' red and gold colors, conveying the raw power and dynamism of NFL pass rushing.A cubist interpretation of a Chiefs pass rusher captures the explosive energy and fractured perspectives of modern NFL defense.Kansas City Today

The Kansas City Chiefs are hosting Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. for a top 30 pre-draft visit on Thursday, signaling potential interest in the talented pass rusher with the 9th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Bain had a standout junior season for the Hurricanes, recording 9.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception.

Why it matters

The Chiefs need to bolster their pass rush opposite star defensive end George Karlaftis, as the team's other edge rushers have underperformed. Adding a premier talent like Bain could help maximize the impact of defensive tackle Chris Jones and improve Kansas City's defense.

The details

Bain projects as one of the top edge rushers in this year's draft class alongside Arvell Reese and David Bailey. The Chiefs hold the 9th overall pick and have been linked to Bain in recent mock drafts, suggesting he could be an option if he's still available when they are on the clock.

  • The Chiefs are hosting Bain for a top 30 pre-draft visit on Thursday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Rueben Bain Jr.

A junior edge rusher from the University of Miami who had a standout 2025 season, recording 9.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception.

George Karlaftis

The Chiefs' starting defensive end, an excellent pass rusher who needs more help from his teammates on the edge.

Felix Anudike-Uzomah

A former first-round pick by the Chiefs who has been disappointing as a pass rusher.

Ashton Gillotte

The Chiefs' best reserve edge rusher behind Karlaftis.

Chris Jones

The Chiefs' star defensive tackle whose impact could be further enhanced by improved edge rushing.

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What they’re saying

“If Kansas City wants to get the most out of defensive tackle Chris Jones, it does make sense to add more talent on the edge.”

— Ben Strauss, Author

What’s next

The Chiefs will evaluate Bain and other top edge rushers during the pre-draft process to determine if he is the best fit with the 9th overall pick.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' interest in Rueben Bain Jr. suggests they are prioritizing upgrading their pass rush this offseason, which could pay dividends in helping their defense take the next step and support their high-powered offense.