Chiefs GM Hints at Unpredictable Draft Plans

Veach says No. 9 pick could go in 'any one direction' based on early picks

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:11pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented and overlapping shapes in shades of red, blue, and green, conceptually representing the uncertainty and multiple possibilities surrounding the Chiefs' upcoming draft pick.The Chiefs' draft plans remain fluid as they wait to see how the early picks unfold, creating an unpredictable situation for the team's first-round selection.Kansas City Today

The Kansas City Chiefs hold the 9th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and according to general manager Brett Veach, the team's plans for that selection could be heavily influenced by what happens with the picks ahead of them. Veach hinted that the Chiefs' choice at No. 9 is wide open and could 'go in any one direction' depending on how the early part of the draft unfolds.

Why it matters

The Chiefs are coming off a disappointing 8-8 season and will be looking to add impact talent in the draft to help them return to the playoffs. Their flexibility with the 9th pick could allow them to target the best player available or address a specific position of need, depending on how the board falls.

The details

Veach acknowledged that the uncertainty around the top picks in the draft creates a 'chaotic' situation for the Chiefs, who will have to be prepared for multiple scenarios with their first-round selection. The team's draft plans could hinge on which players are still available when they are on the clock at No. 9.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26.

The players

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has hinted at an unpredictable approach to the team's first-round pick in the upcoming draft.

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What they’re saying

“I think it does open up that No. 9 pick to go in any one direction,”

— Brett Veach, General Manager

What’s next

The Chiefs will continue to evaluate prospects and finalize their draft board in the weeks leading up to the NFL Draft, keeping all options open for how they will use the 9th overall selection.

The takeaway

The uncertainty around the top of the 2026 NFL Draft gives the Chiefs flexibility with their first-round pick, but also creates a challenging situation as they try to identify the best player available to help improve their team.