Kansas City Chiefs select pass rusher Cashius Howell in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

The hometown prospect provides a boost to the Chiefs' defensive line

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:38pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold red, gold, and black colors depicting the dynamic motion of a football player rushing the passer, conveying the raw power and athleticism of NFL edge rushers.A cubist interpretation of a Kansas City Chiefs pass rusher captures the explosive energy and fractured perspectives of modern NFL defense.Kansas City Today

In a 2026 NFL mock draft by Bleeding Green Nation, the Kansas City Chiefs select Cashius Howell, an edge rusher from Texas A&M, with the 29th overall pick. Howell, who grew up a Chiefs fan in Kansas City, is described as a high-motor pass rusher with impressive athleticism and bend.

Why it matters

The Chiefs have a history of prioritizing defensive line and edge rushers in the first round under Andy Reid, and Howell represents a local talent that could provide an immediate impact on their pass rush. As the Chiefs look to continue their Super Bowl contention, adding a talented edge rusher like Howell could be a key piece to their defensive plans.

The details

Howell, a 6'2", 248-pound edge rusher, is coming off an 11.5 sack season for Texas A&M. He is described as having a high motor and impressive athleticism, with a 4.59 40-yard dash time. The Chiefs are seen as likely to target an edge rusher or cornerback with this late first-round pick, and Howell fits the mold of the type of defensive lineman they have prioritized under Reid.

  • Howell had 11.5 sacks for Texas A&M in the 2025 season.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Cashius Howell

A 6'2", 248-pound edge rusher from Texas A&M who is a native of Kansas City and grew up as a Chiefs fan.

Andy Reid

The long-time head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, known for his success in the draft and his preference for building through the defensive and offensive lines.

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What’s next

The Chiefs will look to add Howell to their defensive line in the 2026 NFL Draft, hoping he can provide an immediate boost to their pass rush.

The takeaway

By selecting the hometown prospect Cashius Howell, the Chiefs are continuing their trend of prioritizing defensive line talent in the first round under Andy Reid. Howell's combination of athleticism, production, and local ties make him an intriguing fit for the Chiefs as they aim to maintain their status as Super Bowl contenders.