Chiefs Analyst Urges Team to Focus on Two Key Positions in NFL Draft

KC has two first-round picks to address roster needs after offseason moves.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to NFL.com analyst Eric Edholm, the Kansas City Chiefs should target a top cornerback and an edge rusher with their two first-round picks in the upcoming NFL Draft. Edholm believes it will be harder to find a corner of the caliber of LSU's Mansoor Delane later in the draft, while UCF's Malachi Lawrence fits the Chiefs' mold well as a pass-rushing prospect.

Why it matters

The Chiefs have been active in the offseason, bringing in running back Kenneth Walker while losing cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson to the Rams. With two first-round picks, the team has a chance to significantly upgrade the roster, and Edholm's recommendations address key needs on both sides of the ball.

The details

Edholm suggests the Chiefs should select Delane, the top cornerback in the draft, and Lawrence, an edge rusher from UCF, with their two first-round picks. He believes it will be harder to find a corner of Delane's caliber later in the draft, while Lawrence fits the Chiefs' mold well as a pass-rushing prospect. The Chiefs have nine total draft picks, giving them multiple avenues to address needs at tackle, receiver, and tight end after the first two rounds.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs who has been active in reshaping the roster this offseason.

Mansoor Delane

The top cornerback prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, currently playing for LSU.

Malachi Lawrence

A pass-rushing prospect from UCF who is projected to be a good fit for the Chiefs' defense.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Chiefs fans weren't crazy about the Delane-Lawrence pairing in my latest mock, but they'd be getting the top corner in the draft and a rush project who fits their mold well.”

— Eric Edholm, NFL.com Analyst

What’s next

The Chiefs will make their two first-round selections at the 2026 NFL Draft on April 24-26.

The takeaway

The Chiefs have the draft capital to significantly upgrade their roster, and Edholm's recommendations of targeting a top cornerback and an edge rusher with their first-round picks address key needs on both sides of the ball. How the team approaches the draft will be a fascinating watch as they look to continue building a contender in the AFC West.