Chiefs Land Top WR Target for Patrick Mahomes in NFL Draft

Mel Kiper projects Kansas City to select a new No. 1 receiver to boost Mahomes' offense.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 4:02pm

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A cubist, geometric painting in shades of red, gold, and black, depicting fragmented and overlapping shapes that suggest the action and energy of an NFL football game or draft event.The Chiefs' search for a new top receiver target to complement Patrick Mahomes' offense is a key storyline heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.Kansas City Today

With star quarterback Patrick Mahomes recovering from a torn ACL, the Kansas City Chiefs are looking to add offensive playmakers in the 2026 NFL Draft. According to ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr.'s final mock draft, the Chiefs are projected to select a top wide receiver prospect to serve as Mahomes' new No. 1 target.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' offense revolves around Mahomes, the 2023 NFL MVP, so surrounding him with elite receiving talent is crucial to their Super Bowl aspirations. Adding a dynamic wide receiver through the draft could help the team maintain its status as a perennial playoff contender.

The details

In Kiper's mock, the Chiefs are projected to use their first-round pick on a wide receiver who could immediately step in as Mahomes' top option in the passing game. This would give the star quarterback a new go-to target to complement the team's existing receiving corps.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.
  • Mahomes is expected to be fully recovered from his ACL injury in time for the 2026 season.

The players

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, who won the NFL MVP award in 2023 and led the team to the playoffs.

Mel Kiper Jr.

A prominent ESPN analyst who is known for his annual in-depth NFL draft projections and analysis.

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What’s next

The Chiefs will look to address their receiving needs through the draft, with the goal of finding a top-tier talent to pair with Mahomes and keep their offense among the league's best.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' ability to surround Mahomes with elite receiving talent will be crucial to their continued success and Super Bowl aspirations, especially as the star quarterback recovers from a major injury.