Chiefs Urged to Make Major NFL Draft Trade with 9th Pick

Kansas City holds an unfamiliar top-10 selection in 2026 draft

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:36pm

The Kansas City Chiefs, who are not accustomed to holding a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft, are being urged to seriously consider trading their No. 9 overall selection in the 2026 draft. Experts believe the Chiefs could capitalize on their rare high draft position to acquire additional picks or target a specific player they covet.

Why it matters

The Chiefs have been one of the most successful teams in the NFL in recent years, making the playoffs in 8 of the last 10 seasons. However, their sustained excellence has resulted in them typically drafting late in the first round, making a top-10 pick a rarity. This presents the organization with an opportunity to potentially reshape their roster through a strategic draft trade.

The details

At No. 9 overall, the Chiefs could stay put and hope that a top prospect at a premium position like wide receiver or edge rusher falls to them. However, analysts suggest the Chiefs would be wise to explore trade options, as they could potentially acquire additional high-value picks or target a specific player they have identified as a perfect fit for their roster and system.

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

The players

Kansas City Chiefs

A professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri that plays in the National Football League (NFL).

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What’s next

The Chiefs will have until the start of the 2026 NFL Draft on April 24th to decide whether to keep the No. 9 overall pick or explore trade options.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' rare top-10 draft position presents them with an intriguing opportunity to potentially reshape their roster through a strategic trade. While they could stay put and hope for a top prospect to fall to them, experts suggest they would be wise to explore trade options that could net them additional high-value picks or allow them to target a specific player they have identified as a perfect fit.